N 



ACCOUNT 7 " V 

OF AW 

OF THE 

IN THE COLONY OF DEMERARA, 

WHICH BROKE OUT 

On the 18th of August, 1823. 



By JOSHUA BRYANT. 




Hemeraras 

PRINTED BY A. STEVENSON, 
At the Guiana Chronicle Office, Georgetown. 



1824. 



10 



^LATE LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE 
U2JITED COLONY OF DEMERARA AND ESSEQUEBO, 

THE FOLLOWING PAGES 

BY HIS MOST OBEDIENT, 

HUMBLE SERVANT, 

JOSHUA BRYANT. 



PREFACE 



The Author of the following Pages, impressed 
with the painful conviction that the valuable 
Colony of Demerara is very imperfectly known 
to Europeans, conceived the intention of pre- 
fixing, as no unsuitable Introduction to his 
Work, some succinct account of its topographi- 
cal, political, and moral features. Upon ma- 
turer reflection, however, he perceived, that, by 
confining himself to the limits he had prescribed, 
it would be impossible to illustrate, in a satis- 
factory manner, the past and present condition 
of so interesting a Country, or condense within 
so small a compass any stock of valuable or im- 
portant information. On the other hand, if he 
had determined to enlarge the plan of his Book, 
and attempted to advance the geographical sci- 
ence of the Colony, by means of a minute and 
comprehensive description of its situation, soil, 
climate, productions, commerce, political insti- 
tutions, statistics, history, &c, his failure would 
have been complete. The extreme difficulty of 
executing a work of this kind is sufficiently ob- 
vious : it requires an extent and variety of read- 



VI 



in., and acquirements, to which the Auttior has 
noFetensions-and a patience of mvest^on 
and soundness of judgment, which, he regrets to 
say are rarely to be found in the works of tra- 
vels in Demerara. Indeed, these histories 
are, in general, very defective, and surpnsmgly 

'"much it were to be wished, that some 
distinguished writer, competent to the execution 
of so arduous and important a task would be 
encouraged to undertake a Historical Work,-- 
which should be nationah-concernmg the Co- 
lonies in British Guiana. The theme is wor by 
of the most eminent pen, and rich as the 
boundless fertility of the soil. Pohtically, mo- 
rally, and socially considered, such an under, 
taking is not a desideratum only, it might, in 
truth serve as the palladium of our future pros- 
pe^ "the advocate of our rights-the defender 

of our interests I* . T 

Th e path which the present Writer has 
chosen to himself in these pages is humble and 
simple, but it is not inviting. To present a de- 
tail of circumstances which exhibit the tumul- 

• The present Writer, who has f^/^^^ 
i_ r :„ He nrofession as an At nst, actu 

the be.t, with additions from a new port-foho, winch pr P 
to form us won as circumstances shall perrut. 



Vii 



tuous passions of human nature, breaking out 
into acts of open outrage and rebellion, and 
threatening the destruction of established go- 
vernment,— is, by no means, a pleasing or gra- 
tifying labour. The Author, however, having 
been furnished with accurate information re- 
specting these unhappy events, from various 
sources, conceived that, by a plain Narrative of 
facts, he would discharge himself of a public 
duty,— and might be able, at the same time, to 
refer to it as a faithful and authentic record. In 
the performance of this task, he has studiously 
abstained from invidious comments: how he 
has acquitted himself otherwise, he leaves to the 
decision of an indulgent public. 



©eotgttoton, 2 5th September, 1824, 



Conceiving that every correction had been attended to in this Narrative,— to 
the Author's surprise, however, it was intimated to him, (fortunately previous 
to publication,) that a mistake had arisen in the note of page 22, concerning the 
information received. In explanation of the error in this note — the communica- 
tion of the matter came to the Author in manuscript, from an Officer of the 21st, 
and not direct from Lieutenant Brady, as stated in the introduction of the note 
referred to. 

In the commencement of the same note, the sentence should be read as 
follows :— " He lost no time in apprising the neighbouring families of the 
alarming report ; and, after having stationed patroles, returned to the Post, 
about half-past three, on Tuesday morning, with the family of Mr. Van Barle 
under his protection." The words in Italics were inadvertently omitted. 

By some unaccountable oversight or mistake, the Answer of Lieutenant Brady 
to the Address of the Inhabitants of the United Colony, 4th October, 1823, 
£in page 103,] is omitted, 

25th October, 182*. 



NARRATIVE, &c. 



Itf presenting the following Details of a ramified Con- 
spiracy, and formidable Insurrection of the Slaves on 
the East Coast of the Colony of Demerara, the writer 
has done all in his power to adhere closely to facts. 
He haS had the happiness to receive the accounts of 
many respectable eye-witnesses ; and by collating the 
circumstances which came under their observation, re- 
spectively, he is encouraged to hope, that his narration: 
may be safely referred to, as an authentic record of the 
History of this Colony, during a crisis, agitating and 
perilous beyond all previous example. His most de- 
sirable office, as it is his chief object, is the communi- 
cation of truth; and he, therefore, avoids points of con- 
troversy^ and abstains from invidious comment, touching 
cause and effect, as altogether foreign: to a professed 
narrative of simple facts. 

On Monday morning, the 18th of August, 1823, 
between six and seven o'clock, a mulatto servant, named 
Joseph, belonging to Mr. Simpson of Le Reduit, near- 
ly five miles from Georgetown, communicated to his 
master — evidently under feelings of trepidation and hor- 
ror — that all the negroes would rise [revolt] that night, 
or the following day at latest. He had previously been* 
aware of the existence among them, of great disaffec- 
tion, — observed many private communings together, — 
suspected that some atrocious purpose was contempla- 
ted, — and determined upon narrowly watching their 
motions./ Not being a confederate himself, he persuad- 
ed the £ijegro Donderdaag, of the same estate, to act the 
part of a spy ; by w hich means he ascertained, positive- 

B 



2 



]y, that the rising or revolt had been fixed* upon the 
preceding evening, at the Missionary Chapel on planta- 
tion Le Resouvenir ; and that the head-men or ring- 
leaders, by preconcerted plan, were to put in motion 
the gangs of the different estates at one and the same 
moment, in order to insure combined and simultaneous 
operations on all points. 

Mr. Simpson appreciated this information as its ob- 
vious importance demanded. He desired his servant 
to avoid making any appearance of bustle, or by clear- 
ing away fire-arms, give rise to a suspicion of the plot 
being discovered. Being a Burgher Officer, and Cap- 
tain of the Georgetown Troop of Cavalry, he immedi- 
ately left his estate, for the purpose of communicating 
to His Excellency the Governor, at Camp-House, the 
disclosures that had been made to him. On his way 
to town, he called at plantation Cuming's Lodge, ladies, 
being in the family, and warned them of the impending 
danger, as he also did privately at other places, on his 
progress downwards. About ten o'clock, Captain Simp- 
son had an interview with His Excellency the Governor* 
who received the information with his accustomed ur- 
banity, and appeared to give it his most serious attention. 
His Excellency directed that the Cavalry should be 
assembled immediately^, and requested that Captain 
Simpson would call upon him at the King's House, in 
two hours. The Cavalry accordingly were summoned; 
several of them in professional attendance at the Court 
of Justice, then sitting, having, upon the representation 
of Captain Simpson to His Honor the President, re- 
ceived permission to join their corps. Within two hours, 
they had assembled at the Court-House yard. Captain 
Simpson waited upon His Excellency at the place and 
time appointed, and met him in consultation with His 
Honor the First Fiscal. He then received instructions 
to march his Cavalry direct to plantation Le Reduit, 
and, on his way up, to leave notice at the different 
estates, of approaching disturbances, in order to put 
them on their guard, and secure their fire-arms. His 
Excellency added, that he would follow in person, and 
at Le Reduit would give further orders. 



s 



It was now three o'clock. The troop of Cavalry, 
which altogether did not amount to more than fourteen 
men, commenced their march, under Captain Simpson, 
then in plain clothes. They proceeded up the Coast 
by way of Cuming's Canal, the Captain sending in 
^expresses to the different estates, with warning notices, 
till he halted at Le Reduit, as directed by the Governor, 
about four o'clock. 

His Excellency the Governor, and His Honor the 
Fiscal, in a carriage, attended by Captain Campbell, 
Brigade-Major, with His Excellency's Aid-de-Camp, 
Lieutenant Hammill, and the Government Secretary, 
John Murray, Esq. now left town for the Coast, and 
received the Cavalry at their station, about five o'clock 
in the afternoon. His Excellency ordered Captain 
Simpson to despatch, with all possible speed, a serjeant 
and four troopers, to the military post at Mahaica 
Creek, with an express, giving information, on their 
way, of what was go-ng forward, to the Burgher Cap- 
tains 'M 'Turk and Spencer, and to such of the estates 
to windward as might be imparted without causing 
delay. The detachment pushed forward immediately. 

His Excellency and His Honor the First Fiscal now 
proceeded to interrogate Joseph, the man who first 
divulged to Captain Simpson the existence of a con- 
spiracy. The negro Donderdaag, also before mentioned, 
v/as called into the room, and solemnly declared, that 
what he had told Joseph was perfectly true. Other 
negroes were likewise examined, whose statements fully 
agreed with the account which had been obtained be- 
fore, and which left no doubt on His Excellency's 
mind, that a spirit of insubordination and rebellion was 
in full activity amongst the slave population of the 
Colony. From what came out in these examinations, 
it appeared, that a negro named Mars, belonging to 
plantation Vryheid's Lust, [see Map], was deeply im- 
plicated as a leader or fomenter in the plot. His 
Excellency and suite, accompanied by the Cavalry, 
proceeded to that estate, and Mars was taken into 
custody — from whence an express was despatched to 
Captain M'Turk, of plantation Felicity, to repair to 
the Governor, at Vryheid's Lust, 



4 



In the mean time, and about four o'clock, when that 
gentleman was dressing to dine out with Mr. Van 
Waterschoodt, at plantation Plaisance, a coloured man, 
earned William Cuming, called and asked him, whether 
he had not heard the report that the negroes were to 
rise in rebellion that night? After some conversation, 
the names of Quamina of Success, and Cato of his own 
estate, were mentioned, as two of the principal ring- 
leaders. Cato was instantly ordered up; but he declared 
himself to be wholly ignorant of such a matter, and 
that the report, so far as he knew, was entirely void of 
truth* The Captain, however, not trusting to appear- 
ances, sent him off to plantation Brothers, to be put in 
the stocks; and, suspecting the worst, communicated 
with the manager of Success, who stated, that the son 
of Quamina, named Jack, would be as deeply involved 
in the plot as the father. Both father and son were, 
therefore, ordered to be conducted to Felicity. Time 
pressed on, and they did not make their appearance. 
The conclusion was inevitable — the authority of the 
manager must have been wrested from him — the Revolt 
must, in sad reality, have broken out. Captain M'Turk 
lost no time in riding over to Mr. Cuming, of Chateau 
TMargo, with the information, who, at the Captain's 
request, directed one of his overseers to hasten on 
horseback with the intelligence to the estates to wind- 
ward, and summon the White Militia to rendezvous. 
On his return from Chateau Margo, and proceeding 
up the middle walk of plantation Success, he observed 
a large number of negroes collected together, whom he 
found, on approaching nearer, to be armed. It was 
necessary to retreat immediately. The Captain was 
making his way to the rendezvous of his company, 
when, on the public road, the express from the Gover- 
nor, to repair to him at Vryheid's Lust, was delivered 
to him, which he obeyed with all diligence. 

On his arrival, His Excellency, beginning to converse 
with him, was informed, that there could be no doubt 
pf the Revolt having already commenced. A fire had 
.been discerned, on his way down, proceeding either from 
the buildings of La Bonne Intention or Mon 11 epos. 



5 



His Excellency immediately called to horse, to push 
farther up the Coast, in order to ascertain the precise 
situation of the fire. Captain Simpson, with two file 
t)f men, was ordered to advance in front, at full gallop, 
to the place of alarm, and to return to the General, at 
head-quarters, at Chateau Margo, to inform him of the 
event. 

Flis Excellency and suite, with the undetached part 
of the Cavalry, &c. followed rapidly. They reached 
the side-line between Le Resouvenir and Felicity, [see 

ap], when a large body of armed negroes came down 
upon them, shouting, " We have them, we have them." 

His Excellency immediately stopped, and demanded 
what they wanted. They replied, " Our right." His 
Excellency observed, that he could not think of entering 
into any discussion with them, until they laid down 
their arms; in which case, he would listen to them pa- 
tiently. This they positively refused; but, after some 
expostulation with those nearest him, they appeared, 
for a little time, to be disposed to listen to his advice, 
and two or three laid down their arms. His Excellency 
then stated to them the nature of the instructions he 
had received respecting the intentions of Government 
to ameliorate their condition; but warned them, that 
any acts of insubordination, or breaches of the peace, 
committed by them, would deprive them of the benefit 
intended for them. He admonished them, for their 
own good, to return peaceably to their homes, and, if 
they had any complaints to make, or required further 
explanation of what he referred to, respecting the com- 
munications he had received from His Majesty's Gov- 
ernment, he would be giad if they would meet him at 
plantation Felicity, for that purpose, the following morn- 
ing, at eight o'clock. A few seemed as if they were 
desirous to avail themselves of His Excellency's con- 
descension; but others immediately called out, " No, 
no!" and a blowing of shells followed. It was nofr 
needless to think of appeasing their refractory spirit. 
The General went into his chaise. Some yet seemed 
•anxious to speak to him again. He went up, and 
repeated his advice, stating the consequences that would 



Ibefal them, if they persisted in such rebellious conduct, 
■which he was determined to suppress, by the ample 
means lie had in his power — and, though painful to 
his feelings, their proceedings in such unlawful courses 
would leave him no' other alternative. His Excellency 
then drove off, the negroes exclaiming, " Go, go !" 

Meanwhile, Captain Simpson, with his four men, 
pushed forward to ascertain the cause of the fire. In 
advancing to Success, he met Mr. Cort near the middle 
walk of plantation Le Resouvenir, who exclaimed, 

Go to the Success, the trouble is all there." This 
was the adjoining estate, and he immediately gallopped 
up. On approaching the buildings, he observed several 
negroes in the yard, armed with cutlasses, around the 
manager's house, and apparently commanding the en- 
trance* Captain Simpson instantly rode up the bridge 
leading to the door, and^asTced, with a loud voice, "Are 
•there no white people Iiere? — or why don't you come 
out?" — On which the manager, from a window up 
stairs, in great agitation, said, "Do not fire at them, 
they are doing no harm." — " Come down instantly," 
was the reply, ^nd the white people did then come 
down. By this time the negroes, in great numbers, 
attempted to surround and cut off' the party, approach- 
ing close to the horses, which obliged the detachment 
to keep them off with their sabres. Being almost 
hedged in, there was no time to be lost, and they con- 
trived to get the whites behind them on horseback ; 
but they were so panic -struck that they got off again, 
and only one man kept his seat to the distance of half 
n mile from the buildings, when he also dismounted, 
and was so unnerved and lifeless, that he could scarcely 
wade through the trench to save himself. Captain 
Simpson now hurried on to Chateau Margo, where he 
expected to meet with His Excellency the Governor. 
The fire it seemed proceeded from a large heap of dry 

frass, and combustible matter, which the negroes of 
„a Bonne Intention had collected together and set fire 
to, as the signal for attack. 

The rising had now fully commenced, on most of 
t\e estates to windward. The first object of the slaves 



7 



was to seize upon all the white inhabitants, and confine 
them in the stocks, to prevent their going to town for 
troops ? and, after having made themselves masters of 
their arms and ammunition, to go in a body to town, to 
oppose force to force. It was also determined, by the 
ring-leaders, to break up the public bridges, in order 
to impede the march of the military, The following 
instances of their conduct on particular estates, may 
serve to give the reader an idea of what occurred on 
the plantations generally. 

At Nabaclis, [vide Map], about half-past nine, when 
Mr. and Mrs. Walrond were retiring to bed, unsuspi- 
cious of- approaching danger, the manager of an adjoin- 
ing estate came running into the yard, with written 
information of a despatch having been sent to the 
Governor, that the slaves intended to revolt; and, al- 
though the intelligence was not fully believed, he re- 
commended that the arms and ammunition, generally 
kept in the logie, or manager's room, should be removed 
to the great house. 1 Mr. Reid (joint proprietor of the 
estate) had retired to bed. Mr. Walrond went up to 
his room, and showed him the letter ; he told him he 
w r as determined to defend the property, and went out 
to the gin-house, where the two overseers were lodged, 
and directed them to the dwelling-house, with what 
arms and ammunition were there. Four muskets were 
immediately put in complete order, which, with Mr. 
Walrond's fowling-piece and pistols, were the only 
arms they had, and about sixty rounds of ball-cartridge, 
in the cartoueh-boxes. Mr. Walrond directed that 
two should remain, one on each side of the gallery- 
door; two should remain behind the door of the hall; 
and that as one fired on one side, he should retire to 
the door within, and the other take his place. The 
overseers took the watch; Mr. Reid and Mr. Walrond 
watched from one to four; the latter retired up stairs 
at four o'clock, and laid down, with his cartouch-box 
and every thing on. Mr. Reid in about ten minutes 
called out, " Mr. Walrond, they are at hand;" at which 
time there was a most dreadful yell, resembling a war- 
whoop [the most dreadful he ever heard], Mr. Wal- 



8 



rond seized his fowring-piece, and was going to the 
place to repel them, and saw Mr. Tucker (one of the 
overseers) tire from the inside of the house, direct from 
the door; and, as Mr. Walrond passed him, a shot 
was fired from the jealousie near the door, and Mr. 
Tucker received a wound through the body, and ex- 
claimed, 66 O Christ, I am shot!" and immediately 
fell. Mr. Walrond said, " Tucker, I hope not;" but 
he never spoke a word more. Mr. Walrond took his 
place at the side of the hall-door, and levelled at the 
man who had fired from thence; his piece did not go 
off, but he retired to the corner where the gun with the 
bayonet was, and his servant Billy handed it to him, 
just as the other overseer (Mr. Forbes) had fired, and 
who, on retiring to the inner room, was shot imme- 
diately through the back part of the body, and cried 
out, " O God ! I am shot," and reeled to an arm-chair. 
Mr. Xteid, on retiring from the upper end of the gallery, . 
said to Mr. Walrond, "It is of no use — we two are 
opposed to numbers." The latter passed the former, 
and proceeded to the back steps, where he found num- 
bers coming up; he immediately fired down the steps, 
and, as the piece he had was loaded with small ball, he 
wounded two. He was surrounded by numbers, seized 
by the collar on both sides, and dragged down the 
steps in a brutal manner. They raised him after he 
was down, and he begged for his life, for he thought 
they were going to kill him. The negro on his right 
hand, he imagined was his own man Prince, and said, 
" Prince, will you murder me in this barbarous man- 
ner?" — He replied, " I am not Prince, but I am your 
friend — you are a good man, love God, and have not 
debarred your negroes from having their meetings." 
On their removing Mr. Walrond, he was met on the 
way by his servant Joseph, who said they should not 
murder him, and he was forced into a room, into which, 
soon after, they brought Mr. Forbes, wounded, and 
removed Mr. Walrond to an upper room, where the 
stocks were, into which they confined him. They did 
not put the feet of Mr. Forbes in the stocks, as Mr. 
Walrond begged them to have mercy, and take him 
out, which they did. 



§ 

Mrs, Walrond, meanwhile, was in the most acute 
distress, from the noisy turbulence of the reverters 
below. The man-servant, Billy, rushed up stairs to 
Mrs. Walrond, who insisted on going down to say some- 
thing, if she possibly could, to soften them; he entreated 
her not to do so, because his master was killed, as he 
believed, and both the overseers. She then ran to the 
window facing the yard, and threw it open ; they im- 
mediately fired at her, and struck her in the arm. She 
perceived Mr. Walrond was not killed, but only lying 
on the ground. Mrs. Vvalrond then called out, and 
begged they would not kill him; they again fired at 
her, and wounded her in the hand; at that instant, the 
servant Billy pulled her out of the chamber, and locked 
her in another room, and rapidly made his escape, just 
as the rebels rushed up stairs. Mrs. Walrond, on 
being discovered by them, requested to be taken to her 
husband. A tall man then protected her from the 
rest, and the man Sandy asked her if she knew him? 
On her replying in the negative, he told her that " his 
name was Sandy, head -carpenter at Nonpareil; we 
intend you no harm; we are only determined to have 
our freedom." The man-servant Joseph then came 
up, and insisted that his mistress (Mrs. Walrond) 
should be taken to the sick-house, where his master 
was. She accordingly was carried there, where she 
found Mr. Walrond and the overseer; the latter wound- 
ed and dying, though the rebels boldly insisted they 
did not murder him. 

One instance of a spirited and successful resistance 
occurred at plantation Mon Repos, under the manager, 
Mr. James Keane. A large crowd of armed negroes 
had crowded around the buildings. Besides himself 
there were but four overseers, but all were determined 
to defend their lives and property. They had six or 
eight stand of arrfis, and a case of pistols, with abun- 
dance of ammunition. They took up a position in the 
gallery of the house, and, .having refused to deliver up 
their arms, as demanded by the insurgents, and warned 
them not to attack the house, an armed party rushed 
binder it, and others surrounded it on every side* The 



10 



manager cautioned some who had gained the first 
landing-place, not to advance farther, or he would fire. 
Four shots were then fired by the rebels into the front 
of the house, one of which passed close to the manager, 
and nearly stunned him ; he then fired, and his over- 
seers, with one of his coopers, assisted in keeping up 
the fire. The negroes returned it frequently, and 
continued doing so for nearly twenty minutes; he shot 
two of them going to the megas-house to get fuel, in 
order to set fire to the dwelling-house, and wounded 
several others. There was at least fifty stand of arms 
amongst the rebels, but they were ultimately beat off. 

On the plantation Beter Hope, the negroes went on 
with their work as usual, and evinced no symptoms of 
dissatisfaction, or unusual agitation. Betwixt seven 
and eight in the evening, Mr. Blake, the manager, and 
Mr. Mercer, sitting in the hall, a son of the proprietor 
of the adjoining estate earnestly called out for the 
manager, and, having said that the negroes on thr 
Coast had risen, that he must have two white men 
immediately. The unexpected intelligence naturally 
surprised them, there being only one overseer on the 
estate at the moment; he of course armed himself, and 
accompanied the express, but returned at the urgent 
demand of the manager, in about half an hour. These 
two, with a coloured man, being now fully armed, and 
there being no doubt of the revolt having taken place, 
they went to the front part of the house, before which 
the whole of the estate's gang had assembled, whom 
they told to stand and defend themselves, and their 
master's property, which they all said heartily, and 
with one accord, they would do. A noise was soon 
afterwards heard to windward, and in a short time a 
large body of negroes entered the yard, and approached 
the manager's house. The insurgents called upon the 
gang to join them, who all answered, u No." It was 
liicn vociferated, " We shall soon try," The first 
party of the insurgents that came down on the gang, 
were driven back; but a shell being immediately blown, 
sounding the war-whoop, an armed reinforcement im* 
mediately advanced, which it appears had been before 



II 



concealed amongst the shrubbery near tie house* 
These men instantly surrounded the manager's house* 
and thrust their bayonets and guns through the jealousie 
window; others broke through the back part of the 
house, and soon overpowered the whites, whom they 
dragged out of the house, though not without resistance 
on then: part, which was the means of enraging them 
the more; and some actually endeavoured to cut down 
the overseer, (Mr. Mercer,) who received a deep wound 
in his head. One prevented him from being killed 
outright, on account of his having presented a gun at 
the fellow's breast, in order that he should be reserved 
for his own special victim, to glut his revenge the next 
day. This man's name was Louis, a desperate ring- 
leader, who afterwards expiated his crimes upon the 
gallows. 

^ The manager, overseer, and coloured man who as- 
sisted, were conducted to the sick-house ? and there put 
in the stocks. A negro man set to guard, was on the 
point of cutting off the head of the coloured man, but 
others of the party coming in, interfered, and shortly 
released him altogether. The driver of the Beter 
Hope was likewise forced into the stocks, for having 
refused to join the insurgents, but was afterwards taken 
©ut. The overseer, Mr. Mercer, while confined in the 
stocks, and agonized with the pain of the wound in his 
head, repeatedly asked and implored the aforesaid man, 
Louis, to supply him with a little water, if it were only 
to wash the blood from his head— the request was 
stubbornly refused. The riotous mob, with the excep- 
tion of two or three, then went over to the manager's 
house, and with licentious fury broke open the stores, 
smashed his glass ware, and destroyed the furniture. 
Shortly after, the firing of the military was heard in 
tne neighbourhood— the tumult immediately subsided— 
the insurgents had fled in a body— and the whites were 
soon liberated from the stocks by their own negroes. 

The next instance of the conduct of the negroes' at 
the commencement of the Revolt, shall be drawn from 
the occurrences which took place at Bachelor's Adven- 
ture, at the house of the head book-keeper, Mr. Rogers, 



12 



Ha had' gone to bed about nine a' clock, not foreseeing- 
what be was fated to endure before next morning. In 
about two hours afterwards, he was roused from his 
sleep by a tremendous knocking at his door; he asked, 
" Who's there?" — "Friends from Mahaica," was the 
reply. " What do yon* want?'-' lie exclaimed.— r-" Every 
thing," said they — "guns, powder, ball, iron — we do 
not corneas murderers, but these things we must have." 
Mr. Rogers naturally hesitated and kept silent. In a 
few seconds they commenced battering at the door, 
which they broke open; they then ransacked the house, 
and took away all the arms they could find. The 
party were strange negroes, a great many of whom 
were armed with guns and cutlasses; they went away 
peaceably. In about fifteen minutes after, however, 
a second party of negroes, also well armed, made their 
appearance, and ordered Mr. Rogers, who was then, 
leaning on the window, to come down stairs, who an- 
swered that he would not; they then threatened to 
shoot him; on hearing which, he instantly withdrew 
from the window, after which, he was stunned by the 
report of a gun. They then broke open the doors, 
and rushed up stairs. Mr. Rogers had just then gone 
to his bed- room, to the assistance of his wife, who had; 
nearly gone into fits,, having been brought to bed only 
ten days before. 

A man named Joseph, who was well armed and 
accoutred, instantly seized Mr. Rogers by the collar,, 
and who, upon making some slight resistance, raised 
his arm, and gave him several hard blows on the chest;: 
and so violent was the usage he received throughout, 
that one of the floor boards gave way with him.. The 
fall occasioned a severe contusion upon his left knee; 
he was then dragged to the stocks at the point of the 
bayonet, and where, in a minute or two afterwards, all 
the white gentlemen of the estate, (wz. Mr. Grant, Mr. 
Bowerbank, Mr. Airess, and Mr. Moiieo,) were treated 5 
with the same ignominy. The stocks were locked, and 
the door nailed up; orders were also given, by one 
of their chiefs, named Kinsale, that not a soul should 
meddle with the stocks, or assist those in confinement* 



13 



until his return from Mahaica, where he said, " he was 
going to make war." One of them, named Natt, sug- 
gested that Mr. Roger's hands should be bound, as 
they were all aware that he was a strong man, and 
would make his escape before morning, if he were left 
like the rest; or said he, " Take him over to Paradise, 
[plantation Paradise], and put him into Mr. Hughes' 
stocks, hands and feet." After much entreaty, however, 
and the interference of some of the rioters, he was al- 
lowed to remain with the rest. 

They all continued in the stocks from eleven o'clock, 
a. m. of the 18th of August, to the 19th following, 
seven o'clock evening, when they were liberated by the 
military, without having obtained any relief or susten- 
ance all that time, save water alone. 

In this manner did the negroes proceed, on about 
forty plantations on the East Coast — say from planta- 
tion Plaisance, four miles from town, [vide Map], to 
the estate of Clonbrook, in the neighbourhood of Ma- 
li a ica; and, but for the timely resistance they met with, 
which will be detailed in the sequel, would have ex- 
tended that evening at least beyond Mahal ca Creek. 

In giving these instances of lawless outrage, it would 
be unpardonable to neglect the more pleasing task of 
recording an example of fidelity and good conduct on 
the part of the gang of plantation Brothers, [see Map], 
who not only refused to join the insurgents, but, with 
a presence of mind and courage truly praise-worthy, 
resisted the tumultuous negroes of the neighbouring 
estates from encroaching on their master's property, 
and succeeded in defending the lives of the whites, 
though at the imminent hazard of their own. The 
rebels belonging to Success, Le Resouvenir, Montrose, 
&c. all came in a body to the above estate, calling upon 
the gang to come and join them, and demanding ad- 
mission to the house, in which at that time were four 
ladies, and three children. The manager himself had 
been ordered off, on express military duty. The ne- 
groes, however, stood firm, saying, they were deter- 
mined not to have any thing to do with them, and that 
they would oppose the first man who advanced. On 

c 



14 



this a dreadful rencontre took place — >many severe and 
dangerous blows were exchanged, fourteen of the prin- 
cipal men on the estate having been bruised and wound- 
ed. The rebels only succeeded in carrying one white 
man out of four then on the estate, to the sick-house, 
and he was rescued, as they were about to place him 
in the stocks. The insurgents were ultimately obliged 
to abandon their enterprise at this point, and gradually 
retired. But it is not to the defence alone of their 
master's property, &c. that the highest praise is due to 
the negroes of the Brothers; they were of the greatest 
service to the military at the neighbouring post, Felicity ; 
-and they were the first of their race who came boldly 
forward to criminate the offenders, on the evening in 
question, no white man on the estate being acquainted 
with their names, and the most daring of whom have 
since suffered for their crimes. It may justly be said, 
that these negroes not only deserved well of every one 
connected with them, but of the community at large. 

The Governor having arrived from the Coast at 
head-quarters, about nine o'clock, evening, and being- 
convinced that the most prompt and decisive measures 
were necessary to arrest the progress of the revolt, and 
protect the lives and properties of His Majesty's sub- 
jects, instantly ordered out a detachment of the 21st 
North British Fusileers, and the 1st West India Regi- 
ment, who instantly marched for the Coast, About ten 
o'clock, the bugle was sent through the town, and 
sounded to arms— the Militia inhabitants, though ig- 
norant of the cause, obeyed the summons with the 
utmost alacrity. The Rifle Corps, commanded by 
Captain Croal, was instantly prepared for service, and 
immediately followed the detachment of the garrison 
troops. A considerable part of the Georgetown Militia 
remained under arms all night, at the general rendez- 
vous, and some of them patrolled the streets. About 
half-past eleven, also, four carriages drew up in the 
barrack-square, in which were placed a second detach- 
ment of the 21st Fusileers, with orders to proceed as 
rapid I v in advance as possible, taking in ten men from 
the previous detachment, and to occupy plantation 
^Vnnandal<\ 



m 



Captain M'Turk, meantime, who had been left (after 
the Governor had returned to town) with Lieutenant 
Forrester, and four or five of the Cavalry, Lieutenant 
Cort, Second Battalion of Militia, and two or three 
others, proceeded slowly down the Coast, in the direc- 
tion of town. The party was joined by six or eight 
gentlemen at intervals. On halting at Goode Ver- 
waghting, the rendezvous of the Company, the rebels 
were observed to be advancing, in force, which made it 
necessary for them to proceed downwards,, that they 
might meet the troops which were to be immediately 
sent from town to their assistance. At Bel-Air r not: 
perceiving any approach of them, the party returned to 
the rendezvous, in the immediate neighbourhood, of 
which, a numerous body of armed negroes were dis- 
covered: they had partially broken down the bridge 
over the windward side-line of the Goode Verwaghting, 
and barricaded the bridge over the leeward side-line of 
Plaisance, with the torn-up railings, over which they 
had planted their muskets. The party here remained: 
in anxious expectation of the arrival of the troops; and 
observing a body of negroes on the leeward side-line: 
of Plaisance, advanced towards them, most of whom: 
retired on their approach ; some of them, however, 
took up a position on Le Reduit, crying and shouting,/ 
but the party soon dislodged and drove them before 
it. They were joined at this time by a multitude of 
negroes from Cuming's Lodge, Turkeyen, and other 
neighbouring estates. The small party were now con- 
fined within the narrow space of 1 50 rods, and instant 
measures were now imperatively necessary to compel 
one or other to retire: it was therefore resolved to open 
a communication with town. The negroes were hailed 
and repeatedly told> that if they did not disperse, and' 
go quietly home, they should be fired upon.„ They 
kept retiring slowly, and said not a word : they were 
now on Wittenburg, near the side-line of Industry, 
where the public road forms a right angle [see Map]. 
The detachment of the regular troops which had been 
sent from town, under Captain Stewart, had now ar- 
rived at this angle of the road; but the mob of negroes 



16 



intervening, prevented either party seeing the others 
and the attention of the negroes being no doubt taken 
up by the Militia, the Regulars were almost upon them 
before they were aware. A shot was at this instant 
fired by one of the rebels, which was instantly returned 
by a volley from the troops, which dispersed them in 
all directions, leaving the militia exposed to Captain 
Stewart's fire. Captain M'Turk instantly galloped 
up, and explained. One of the first shots that had 
been fired, had struck Mr. Van Waterschoodt, of the 
militia, in the middle of the leg, and unfortunately broke 
both bones. A detachment of the 21st Fusileers, now 
continued to push forward, forcing the negroes to 
retire. 

We now return to Captain Simpson, whom we left 
approaching Chateau Margo, according to orders, in 
expectation of meeting the Commander-in-Chief, to 
report the cause of the fire. When he arrived at that 
plantation, he found the proprietor, Mr. Cuming, arm- 
ed with a gun, closely surrounded by his negroes, 
armed with cutlasses, &c. and making use of infamous 
language to him. 

Captain Simpson informed Mr. Cuming, that the 
General had named Chateau Margo as the place of 
rendezvous, but, not having fallen in with him, he 
feared he had gone farther up the Coast, and accordingly 
the Cavalry must follow him, to prevent his retreat 
being cut off. Captain Simpson then first dispersed 
Mr. Cuming's turbulent negroes, one of the Cavalry 
having fired in amongst them, and all of them together 
galloping to the charge. 

The party then rode up the Coast, and, when ap- 
proaching the side-line of Beterverwagting, he observed 
a large tumultuous mob of armed negroes, at the bridge 
that divides La Bonne Intention from the above estate, 
attempting to destroy that bridge. They immediately 
advanced to the charge, and obliged them to desist. 
Several bridges had been now almost entirely demolish- 
ed by the insurgents, particularly the important passage 
over the Company Canal, between Success and Le 
Resouvenir* 



The troops from the garrison, who -had been ordered 
into carriages, for despatch, as previously observed, 
proceeded up the Coast with all rapidity, under the 
command of Lieutenant Feddie, of the 21st Fusileers.. 
When they arrived at Le Resouvenir, they were obliged 
to halt at the bridge above-mentioned, in consequence 
©f its demolition, and the carriages were sent into Le 
Resouvenir. A temporary passage was as soon as 
possible made up, and the troops passed over with 
cautious steps. When the detachment arrived at Cha- 
teau Margo, they received, according to orders, ten 
men of the 1st West India, under Ensign Miles r and 
then pushed forward for their appointed station ; but, 
in consequence of so many of the bridges being broken 
down, and the delay necessarily thereby occasioned, the 
night, which happened to have been moonlight, was 
now perfectly dark; and, on coming to plantation Lu- 
signan, they were obliged to march up to that estate, 
to procure a guide. On approaching the dwelling- 
house, they discovered a party of the insurgents asleep 
on the steps, whom they immediately surrounded, and 
who, upon discovering that they, were surrounded by 
the military, endeavoured to make their escape; an 
affray then took place, and two of the insurgents were 
shot upon the spot, four of them, besides, having been 
taken prisoners. It was now near three in the morning, 
and, alter having procured a guide, they arrived at 
plantation Annandale, their appointed station. On 
arriving at this plantation, they found near the buildings 
a few of the insurgents asleep, under a large tree; on 
being discovered, one of them presented a musket at 
the breast of the corporal of the detachment, which 
fortunately missed fire, and the scoundrel was instantly 
laid hold of. On the steps of the dwelling-house, they 
surprised another party of armed negroes, who, on 
being ordered to lay>down their arms, made a rush to 
escape.. One of them, a good-looking young negro, 
who appeared to be the leader of the party, was inter- 
cepted by Ensign Miles; this insurgent made a furious 
blow at him with a new cutlass, which was parried by 
the Ensign, who cut him .in return over the eye, w T hich 



18 



made him reel back, and several shots from the military 
instantly passed through his body. The detachment 
then took possession of the house and buildings, which 
exhibited lamentable marks of the destructive fury of 
savage dissipation. 

The reader will recollect, that an express, consisting 
of a sergeant and four troopers, had been despatched 
with orders to the Military Post at Mahaica, with 
directions also to call at certain estates, to give intelli- 
gence of the revolt. After having informed the Burgher 
Officer s Mr. Spencer, of what was going on, and push- 
ing forward, they observed a vast crowd of negroes on 
the public road, who were afterwards proved to have 
been armed with cutlasses, but which at the time were 
concealed under their jackets. They uttered expres- 
sions of surprise, on seeing the Cavalry; but they re- 
mained peaceable, and the detachment moved on. They 
shortly after came up with another party of forty or 
fifty negroes, disposed on each side of one of the public 
bridges on the highway, who seemed as if they were 
determined to dispute the passage. They cried out, 
with one voice, to a prisoner under the charge of 
the party, " Wa' you fraid for? — let them fire, if 
they dare." On hearing this, the fellow in custody 
darted off, and plunged into the trench. The horse- 
men drew their swords, and the negroes retired to 
a little distance; but, as odds were so immense, it was 
resolved not to hazard a rash experiment. They pro- 
ceeded leisurely, the negroes abusing them with the 
most offensive words which their copious vocabulary 
a Horded. Several stragglers were observed, in their 
further progress, whom they easily put to flight. 

At Bachelor's Adventure, a large gang were drawn 
up on the public road; the small detachment then 
drew their swords, and, moving on determinedly by 
single fdc, produced the effect of making them turn 
hack to the estate. The express arrived at the Post 
about midnight. 

In Georgetown, at the break of next day, Tuesday, 
19th of August, the drums beat to arms, and the Mili- 
tia, and indeed every person, enrolled or not, assembled 



19 



at the general rendezvous, where they were drawn up in 
line, and received His Excellency the Commander-in- 
Chief. His Excellency, after a short, but impressive 
Address, ordered the following Proclamation to be read 
at the head of the Militia, which was immediately circu- 
lated in every part of the United Colony: — 

By His Excellency Major-General JOHN MURRAY, Lieutenant- 
demerara. Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and 

(l- s -^) over the United Colony of Demerara 

JOBNMURRAY. ™ d Esse q uebo > &c - &c - 

By virtue of the power and authority in me vested by our So- 
vereign Lord the King, and whereas the disturbed state of the 
Colony appears to me to be such, as to require the most vigorous 
and decided steps to be taken, for the protection of His Majesty's 
Subjects, and their Property, — I have thought fit to issue this my 
Proclamation, hereby declaring, in the name of our Sovereign 
Lord King George the Fourth, the United Colony of Demerara 
and Essequebo to be, from and after the issuing of this my Pro- 
clamation, under MARTIAL LAW: — And I do hereby enjoin 
all faithful Subjects of His Majesty within this United Colony, to 
govern themselves accordingly, and to be aiding and assisting, to 
the utmost of their abilities, in restoring the peace of the Country, 
and in protecting their Fellow-Subjects. And it is further our will 
and absolute command, in consideration of the Premises, that no 
Person or Persons do, on any pretence whatsoever, quit Georgetown 
without Special Leave had and obtained for so doing — all Persons, 
without distinction, capable of bearing Arms, being required imme- 
diately to enrol themselves in some Troop or Company of the 
Georgetown Brigade of Militia. And it is further ordered and 
enjoined, that all Slaves within the different Districts of George- 
town, be detained by their Masters or Owners within their own 
Premises — not suffering them to leave such Premises on any pretence 
whatsoever, unless on the indispensable business of their Owners. 
Given under my Hand and Seal of Office, at the King's House, in 

Georgetown, this 19th day of August, 1823, and in the Fourth 

Year of His Majesty *s Reign. 

©otr Sabe tiie Hutg* 

By Command of His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, 

JOHN MURRAY, Gov. Sec 



20 



The appearance which town presented, on the pre* 
mulgation of this law, cannot be conceived by those t 
who have never experienced the miseries of war, but 
bv name. All the stores were shut up — not a negro 
was to be seen on the streets; and, if it had not been 
tor the hurrying backwards and forwards of all classes 
to the guard-house for arms, a solemn silence would 
have pervaded the whole capital — as it was, it appeared 
awful and impressive. The minds of all, though ani- 
mated with the best spirit, and the keenest sense of 
that duty which they owe to themselves and fellow- 
subjects, were naturally agitated on contemplating pos- 
sible events. As to the ladies in particular, their situ- 
ation was truly distressing; many of them hastened on 
board vessels in the river, as a safeguard from scenes . 
oi' honor, too shocking to think on. 

A t four o'clock in the afternoon, the Militia mustered 
at the 1 general rendezvous, and persons not previously 
enrolled, of all ages, and of every description, crowded 
with arms to the same place, in order to use their best 
endeavours to avert the danger which impended over 
them. Among these were many gentlemen who had 
previously held commissions in the Colonial Militia, 
a i well as of several foreign powers, besides the Regu- 
lars, who made a tender of their services, to be em- 
ployed in any manner most likely to be useful. A 
considerable number of the men who had assembled,^ 
w ere chiefly youths from fifteen to twenty, tradesmen 
and others, who now for the first time had a musket 
in their hands, but were every one anxious to do all in 
their power. Lieutenant-Colonel Goodman, who had 
this day been appointed to the command of the whole 
Georgetown Militia, gave orders for them all to be told 
oil; and formed two deep. The Officers commanding 
were Tor the most part composed of Gentlemen who 
had previously held commissions, the nomination of 
the Subalterns and Non-commissioned Officers being 
Left to the Captains, and whose appointments took 
place on the spot. In the short space of less than 
i wo hours, a battalion was thus formed, consisting at 
>nce of W sergeants, 30 corporals, and 507 privates. 



21 



and which went under the name of the Provisional 
Battalion *. The Scotch Church, from its proximity 
to the general rendezvous, and for want of any other 
place sufficiently large and convenient, was appropriated 
as their barracks. The whole Militia were inspected 
by Colonel Goodman, and orders given to each of the 
Officers how to proceed, and Were afterwards ordered 
into their respective quarters. 

A strong Marine Battalion was also immediately 
formed, composed of seamen from shipping in the 
river, and inhabitants also of town, commanded by 
Captain Muddle, of the Royal Navy, an old and ex- 
perienced Officer, possessing the most efficient ability 
to form a corps of this description. This battalion 
necessarily varied, according as there might be ships 
in the river. At this time it mustered nearly 400 
strong, and had a most formidable appearance f . Two 

* Thomas Frankland, Esq. a well known and respected inhabitant 
of the Colony, was chosen Major-Commandant of this Battalion, 
whose urbanity and kind attention to every one under his command, 
occasioned the most arduous and fatiguing duty to be encountered 
with cheerfulness. The Adjutant appointed to this Battalion, was 
George Cauty, Esq. Lieutenant on the half-pay of the Royal York 
Rangers. The talent and perseverance displayed by this gentleman, 
in bringing to a high state of discipline, such a body of young and 
raw recruits, excited in every beholder admiration and astonishment. 
On the termination of Martial-Law, the Court of Policy testified 
their sense of the Adjutant's services, by a handsome pecuniary 
compliment. 

f The Marine Battalion was formed in 1816, soon after the 
insurrection which occurred in Barbados. The Masters of the 
merchant vessels being Captains of companies, and commanding 
their respective crews, the unsophisticated sons of old Neptune 
were kept in tolerable order. On the present occasion, however, 
the first company of this Battalion was composed of Gentlemen 
residing in town, and who, previous to the revolt, had been ex- 
empted from militia duty. This company chose its own Officers, 
and was commanded by Charles Conyers, Esq. The writer of this 
narrative (who was enrolled in the company) cannot neglect the 
opportunity here offered, of expressing his sense of the gracious 
manner, and attentive conduct, of the above Gentleman; and in 
this, he trusts, he speaks the sentiments of every one, who had the 
felicity of being under his command. Benjamin Kingston, Esq. 
Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, was second in command of this 
Battalion;— and Lieutenants Day and Sanders, likewise of the 



22 



of artillery were placed, at die points command- 
the two principal entrances into town, and a strong 
( i xlon of picquets was established along the outskirts, 
of these three battalions mounted guard, and frve 
subaltern picquets fisooi the Provisionals, patrol- 
fed the streets, throughout the whole of the night. 

The Officer, Lieutenant Brady, commanding the 
Post at Mahaica, having received the despatch, [for- 
merly referred to], he ordered the small detachment of 
Cavalry to be in readiness, and, at the dawn of the 
Bi \i morning, (Tuesday, the 1 9 th, ) ihey were mounted, 
and waiting for orders. 

Betwixt six and seven o'clock, Mr. Jacob Rogers, 
one of the proprietors of plantation Clonbrook, received 
an alarm from a coloured man, belonging to Mr. An- 
drew Shanks, manager of plantation Nooten Zuvl, who 
came galloping into the yard, with evident marks of 
violence on his person, — shouting out to the people to 
save themselves, and make the best of their way to the 
Post*, — as the negroes below had broke out into open 



Royal Navy, commanded as Field-Officers. Had circumstances 
0C< urred of such a nature, as to have required this Battalion to fall 
on the rebels at close quarters, there is no doubt but its efficiency 
« n such an occasion would have been gloriously manifested, not- 
withstanding the awkwardness and inattention displayed by the 
jolly tars, in their exercise on parade. 

* A view of the Military Po-t at Mahaica,. will be seen in Plate 
111. The OiTicer commanding at the time of the insurrection, was 
lieutenant Brady, of the 21st Fusileers. The following is the sub- 
* I i'lmmication received from that Gentleman, by the 

Author, stating the circumstances which came under his particular 
tbserfRtioD, in conducting operations against the revolters: — 

tenant Brady] first received information of the intended 
bpm Mr. M'Kcand, about six, p.m., on Monday, the 18th 
bL Lost no. time in apprising the neighbouring families of 
ing report; and returned to the Post about haif-past three 
on Tuesd y morning, with the family of Mr. Van Baerle under his 
protection. At about half past six, a coloured boy, named Daniel" 
and Mr. Rogers, of plantation Ann's Grove, arrived there, and 
informed them, that the negroes, to the number of about 2,000, 
were advancing to attack the Po*t. The Lieutenant, conceiving 
ir probable that he might fall in with then before they could reach 
th • high bridge near plantation Grove, [see No. 3 in Map, Plate 
ed forwar 1 with Lis only disposable force,—being only 



25 

revolt, and were then proceeding up, putting all the 



one sergeant, and sixteen privates, — and advanced along the Canal 
as far as the bridge at Ann's Grove, [No. 8 in the Plan], having 
released from the stocks two whites on that plantation. About 
half an hour after, the insurgents appeared in the cotton fields, be- 
tween that point, and the estates Hope and Dochfour, [9 and 10], 
being both sides of the Canal. Some whites had previously joined, 
and now remained with the military. The party being drawn up 
-on the bridge, the insurgents advanced to within twenty yards of 
them. Those right and left were particularly well armed, and im* 
mediately commenced firing upon the military, — shouting and 
roaring, as if, from their immense superiority of numbers, they were 
secure of an easy victory, — endeavouring, at the same time, to 
surround our party, and cut off their retreat to the Post. One of 
the first shots fired, mortally wounded a black servant belonging to 
Mr. M'Keand, who had accompanied his master to the place of 
action. A brisk and continued fire was now kept up on both sides, 
at the distance of from fifteen to thirty yards of each other, along 
"both banks of the Canal — the military availing themselves of every 
eligible point to turn round, and return the fire with effect. The 
loss of the negroes was severe: eleven were seen lying dead, and 
their wounded must have been considerable. Mr. Suter, on our 
side, was wounded, near the Beehive; another white was wounded 
in the back, and four of the Regulars slightly. 

The negroes made another desperate, but unsuccessful attempt 
to surround the party, while drawn up at the Beehive bridge. The 
fire of the military here checked them; they pursued with less 
temerity, and their numbers diminished considerably. Lieutenant 
Brady now apprehended that their object was to cut him off from 
the Post, by going through plantation Grove. He therefore retired 
to the small bridge in front of that estate, where he drew up his 
party. Prince, [the fellow who is introduced in this view, as holding 
a b'ack flag], and another negro, made their appearance on the 
high bridge, but none else advanced. The Lieutenant's ammunition 
being now expended, he retired to the Post. He had scarcely been 
there half an hour, when he received information that the rebels had 
broken down all the bridges, in order to obstruct his advance, they 
suspecting that he would return with a reinforcement. 

On Wednesday morning, the 20th, at break of day, Lieutenant 
Brady marched out of the Post, with a considerable party of Mili- 
tia, and all the disposable strength of the Post — and fell in with 
the enemy about 140 yards from plantation Grove. He pursued 
them closely through that estate, to the bridge at Greenfield. The 
Militia were ordered to move by the opposite bank of the Canal, 
as soon as the Military should enter on the Greenfield road. The 
negroes commenced firing, and they appeared to be in great num- 
bers among the neighbouring bushes; they were dislodged imme- 
diately, however, six having been killed on the left, and two on the 
right. The insurgents flying, with great precipitation, the Lieu- 
tenant gave up the pursuit at plantation Beehive. 



£4< 



white people of the different estates in the stocks. 
Thev accordingly secured their arms and ammunition, 
and hastened thither. On their way, they fell in with 
Lieutenant Brady, and a small party of Regulars, con- 
sisting only of seventeen men, and eleven of the East 
Coast Militia, in full march to meet the insurgents, and 
immediately placed themselves under his command. 
At the draw -bridge between Clonbrook and Ann's 
Grove, they halted for a few minutes, where they 
received information of the two overseers of the latter 
plantation having been put in the stocks : the Lieutenant 
marched up to their release; after accomplishing which, 
he returned to the draw-bridge, observing the move- 
ment of the negroes, who were now seen making their 
way up the side-dams of the plantations Hope and 
Dochfour, and then rode up to reconnoitre, — which, as 
soon as he had done, he returned to his party, after an 
absence of about ten minutes. The negroes now were 
seen to be collecting together in great numbers, about 
the sugar-house of plantation Dochfour, at the distance 
of scarcely 100 rods, and advancing with some rapi- 
dity. The moment was critical, and the Lieutenant 
removed from off the bridge; which, as soon as the 
rebels observed, they came on running in all directions, 
shouting to the military, " Lay down your arms, and 
don't fire,"— advancing, at the same time, till within a 
few yards of the party, who immediately turned round 
and fired, — it being their obvious intention to cut off 
all means of retreat*. At this moment, and not till then, 
Lieutenant Brady ordered a volley to be fired at them, 
opposite the dwelling-house of plantation Clonbrook, 



* The negro Prince, a carpenter belonging to Ann's Grove, ap- 
peared to be the principal ringleader of this multitude of insurgents, 
nearly 2,000 in number. In his left hand he waved a black flag, 
while in his right he brandished a cutlass— rallying them on, with 
determined courage, and daring ferocity of manner. In the Plate, 
he is represented at the moment when beckoning them on, to 
proceed up the north dam of the Canal, for the purpose of inter- 
cepting the retreat of the troops. This rebel was ultimately taken 
prisoner, and shot on the following Friday, meeting his fate with 
sullen and determined fortitude. 



25 



jVide Plate^, but which had not the immediate effect of 
making them retire*; on the contrary, it seemed to 
make them more desperate. On a second round being 
lired by the troops, Mr. Suter, of plantation Grove, 
attached to the party, was wounded in the leg and arm, 
by one of the rebels, who must have concealed himself 
in some part of the garden. Several of the rebels now 
fell, which somewhat checked their progress, and ena- 
bled the party to retreat more leisurely, and load. At 
this time, a negro belonging to plantation Hope, who 
was one of the party, fell behind by accident, and was 
doing all in his power to defend himself with his cutlass, 
when he was unfortunately shot. In making the turn 
at plantation Beehive west side-line, the rebels on the 
south bank of the Canal, considerably neared them, 
those on the opposite side having been prevented from 
advancing by an inlet, [see in the plan], which 
obliged them to take a circuitous turn. One of the 
insurgents here ventured so close, as to strike a private 
of the 21st with his cutlass, which, however, did no 
further injury than cutting the collar of his jacket: the 
soldier was ordered immediately to face round, and he 
instantly put his bayonet through his body, and a shot 
at the same instant from another soldier, left him dead 
on the spot. The Lieutenant then proceeded towards 
the Post, and continued firing at intervals, as opportu- 
nity offered; which seemed to have good effect, as the 
rebels were now lagging behind, and appeared less re- 
solute than at the beginning of the affray. On arriving 
at the draw-bridge of plantation Beehive, they halted, 
and fired upon them. They were still advancing in 
great numbers, on each side of the Canal: the party 
was then ordered to retreat to the draw-bridge of plan- 
tation Greenfield, where it made another halt, and 
gave the enemy a terrible check, — the fire of the rebels 
being now considerably slackened, indeed almost ended* 



* During the retreat, while the party was opposite to Clonbrook, 
tbe female slaves in the hospital of that estate were seen waving 
their handkerchiefs, and huzzaing the rebels, saying, " Neger make 
Buckra run to*day." 



26 



iUr. Suiter, at this time, from loss of blood, and from* 
pkin of bis wounds, was unable to keep pace with the 
rest; and he then received permission to pass, by a 
bye-road, leading through Orange Nassau, to his own 
ht>u$e at the Grove. On arriving at the draw-bridge 
of plantation Grove, the rebels had fallen considerably 
behind, except one man, w r ho was so daring as to follow 7 
with a black flag. They then proceeded on the bank 
of the Canal, at the small public bridge; here Mr. Suter 
was enabled, by the assistance of two of the Regulars, 
to put himself under the protection of the party, who 
then proceeded direct to the Military Post, where they 
Were joined by a small detachment of the Mahaica Mili- 
tia, under Major Gravesande, where they remained 
for the night, maintaining throughout a strong guard 
and patrole. 

While these critical occurrences were taking place 
in the neighbourhood of the Post, Lieutenant Hennis, 
of the Royal Artillery, with two three-pounders, a large 
quantity of ammunition, eight artillery -men, twelve 
sailors and pioneers, with Second-Lieutenant Beete, 
21st, one corporal, and tw r enty privates, w T ere despatch- 
ed by sea, as a reinforcement, to the assistance of Lieu- 
tenant Brady, about half-past three o'clock, p.m. of 
Tuesday. They arrived off the mouth of Mahaica 
Creek, about two of the following morning. From 
contradictory reports of Lieutenant Brady and his 
party, Lieutenant Hennis sent a corporal and four men 
to reconnoitre, and, finding the Post still in Brady's pos- 
session, he disembarked in about two hours afterwards. 

The detachment of the military under Captain Stew- 
art, after a forced march, bivouacked at Felicity, about 
half-past four of the morning of Tuesday — the Rifles 
ai Vryheid's Lust. At break of day, the main body of 
the Rifles proceeded up the Coast*. 



* The following is a short abstract of a Journal, kept by a Gen- 
tleman of the Rifle Corps, with reference to their movements on 
the ( loast, during the most important period of the Revolt: — 

Monday night, I8(h of August, 1825. — Left town at eleven 
o'clock, |>. in.; marched to plantation Goode Verwaghting, without 
halting; learned from the watchman that the white people had all 



27 



About nine o'clock, Mr. Cuming, of Chateau Mar- 
go, fired an alarm of three guns, and sent an express 



removed to Plaisance, the adjoining estate; proceeded thither } 
found the bridge between the two estates entirely demolished, and 
observed the dead body of a negro lying on the road, close by it; 
halted at Plaisance; learned that Mr. Van Waterschoodt had been 
wounded, accidentally, in a skirmish between the rebels and the 
regular troops; were informed that the negroes on that estate were 
quiet, but that the whites of Beter Hoop were confined in the stocks ; 
marched on to the buildings of that estate; met by a party of the 
gang; learned from them that it was a party of strange negroes who 
had done this violence, but, as soon as they were gone, they them- 
selves had cut open the stocks, and liberated them; crossed over to 
Beter Hoop; found that the manager's house had been riotously 
abused, and that the whites had gone over to Mr. Van Cooten's; 
made the slaves procure some planks, and lay them across the 
trenches, to enable us to cross to Vryheid's Lust; found several 
people, including the males of Mr. Van Cooten's family, under 
arms, before the dwelling house ; learned that the slaves there had 
behaved peaceably; rested in the logie two hours, after having 
placed sentinels around the buildings. 

Tuesday. — This morning, at five o'clock, resumed our march'; 
met by Captain Simpson, and a few of the Cavalry, opposite plan- 
tation Felicity; saw that estate already occupied by troops; con- 
tinued our march, passing the picquet guard of the 1st West India 
Regiment, at the bridge over the Company Canal, between Le Re- 
souvenir and Success; halted at Chateau Margo; learned from Mr 
Cuming that all his negroes were aback of the plantation, in a state 
of rebellion; that himself and all his white people had been forced 
into the stocks, but afterwards let out, but that he believed the 
■whites on the adjoining estates were yet in confinement; marched 
on through La Bonne Intention; found the bridge between that 
estate and Baron Van Grovestein's totally destroyed; observed a 
plank across the trench, a little above the buildings; marched up 
the side-line in file, with design to pass over it, but it was hauled in 
by some negroes concealed in the cotton-piece; returned to the 
public road; collected part of the timber of the broken bridge, and 
thereby passed over the trench with difficulty; halted at the dwel- 
ling-house of Beter Verwagting; learned from Baron Van Grove- 
stein, that his negroes had taken away all his arms and ammunition, 
telling him, at the same time, to be under no apprehension, as he 
was one of the white people they intended to save; learned that 
the whites at La Bonne Intention were ail in confinement; offered 
to accompany the Baron, with the corps, to the buildings, and have 
them relieved, but he declined to go; determined on going to re- 
lieve them, and, while on the march thither, received a note from 
the whites of plantation Triumph, wishing for assistance; marched 



28 



to Captain Stewart, tor assistance; a party of rebel 
negroes had been seen approaching, but, on observing 



there first, and halted for a short time*; took charge of the white 
people, who accompanied the corps to Mon liepos; were met near 
the buildings by Ensign Miles, of the 1st West India; he had just 
arrived at the above estate, with about fourteen men, where the 
manager and overseers had made a spirited resistance; left the 
whites of Triumph on Mon Repos, to reinforce the party there, 
and marched back by a cross road, through a field of canes, to La 
Bonne Intention; the negroes were distinctly seen demolishing the 
bridge, while we were marching aback of the plantations by the 
private road; all the cross-beams of the bridges were left standing, 
and, by the help of poles, we got over and reached the buildings; 
the negroes had scouts stationed to report to them, and, as soon as> 
they observed the Rifles on the estate, they liberated the whites, 
of whom we took charge, and marched down the side-line, between 
La Bonne Intention and Chateau Margo; halted at the latter place 
for a short time, and got something to drink for the men, but were 
told by Mr. Cuming, that he expected the Governor to dine tliere^ 
and could not provide any thing for us to eat; marched back, in 
order to refresh the men at plantation Felicity, where it was con- 
ceived some supplies would be sent up; halted there, much fatigued, 
and were taken under the command of Captain Stewart, who de- 
tached Lieutenant Rainy, with ten of the Rifles, and ten of the 1st 
West India, to occupy Plaisance; Captain Stewart advanced to 
Chateau Margo, leaving the Post Felicity in charge of Captain 
Croal. In the evening, Captain Appelius came up, with a party of 
the 2lst Fusileers, and, under his command, we marched [detach- 
ment of 21st and Rifle corps] to Chateau Margo, leaving the above 
Post under Captain M'Turk. 

Tuesday night.— Halted at Chateau Margo, and were joined there 
by Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy, who ordered the Rifle corps to send 
out an advanced guard, supported by a part of the 21st Regiment, 
under Captain Appelius, and the Rifle Corps to lead the main 
body; at Chateau Margo, some slaves were pressed to act with a 
part of the West India, as a fatigue-party, in carrying planks, [which 
were procured by unroofing Mr. Cuming's turtle pond], to cross 
the canals, most of the bridges being destroyed, and the march was 
little impeded, in consequence; sent in parties of the 21st, and 
Rifle corps, to several plantations, and liberated the whites; the 
first filing commenced at Good Hope buildings; while at Elizabeth 
Hall, those of the advanced guard heard firing from the detachment 
of the la] West India, which formed the rear guard; and murmurs, 
were distinctly heard through the cotton-fields, all the way up to 

* A negro brought information to this estate, that the blacks had as* 
tembled in great fores with arms, oa the road opposite to Lubignan. 



29 



the military coming up, they instantly fled. Captain 
Appelius, with the principal strength of the garrison, 



Bachelor's Adventure, where an immense body of negroes hnd se- 
creted themselves, probably for the purpose of attacking us, but 
were deterred by the magnitude of our force, in order to prevent 
surprise; and, hearing firing in our rear, we fired several vollies into 
the cotton fields, as we passed along. 

Wednesday morning,-- Halted at Bachelor's Adventure* and lay 
for two hours under arms, until day-break, at which time we saw 
trie slaves collecting from all quarters; some of them passed within 
pistol-shot of us, with muskets in their hands, and could easily have 
been popped off by the troops, if they had been ordered to fire; 
but they were suffered to concentrate, while others were seen apl 
proachmg, as far as the eye could reach; Colonel Leahy went out 
to the main body of them [after having disposed of the troops, so 
as to prevent an attack in the rear]; he endeavoured to prevail' on 
them to lay down their arms; Captain Croal also went out for the 
same purpose; some of the insurgents called out that they wanted 
lands, and three days in the week to work for themselves, besides 
Sunday, and they would not give up their arms until they were 
satisfied ; the Colonel, finding all remonstrance with them ineffec- 
tual, at last ordered us to the attack; the front of the main body 
of the negroes kept their ground, until we got to within fifty yards 
of them ; the rest dashed into the cotton fields, and fired at us from 
thence, but not with any regularity; the main body of the rebels 
was soon dispersed, by a few vollies from the regular troops, and 
the cotton fields were scoured by the Rifles; the negroes continued 
scampering aback of the plantations, and many more might have 
been shot, if we had continued our fire; but the Commanding Offi- 
cer thought the example would strike sufficient terror, so & as to 
induce them to return and surrender their arms; continued our 
march up the Coast; halted at Nabaclis; found there the interior 
of the dwelling-house in a ruinous state, fragments of broken glass, 
furniture, &c. lying about, and the floors stained and clotted with 
blood, two of the overseers having been murdered here by the 
rebels; Mr. Walrond, the proprietor, witnessed their being shot 
and himself had been confined in the stocks some length of time • 
he joined us, and we proceeded on our march to Mahaica; sent in 
parties to several places near the road, and brought out the white 
people, who accompanied us to the Mahaica Post; reached that 
place between four and five o'clock in the evening; the Rifle corps 
quartered in the dwelling-house of plantation Lancaster. 

Thursday.— This day, a party of the 1st West India, under Cap- 
tain Stewart, marched to plantation Haslington, and Captain Ap- 
pelius, with part of the 21st, was ordered to plantation Clonbrook; 

* The Rifle corps, on Tuesday, and Tuesday night, marched at least 
thirty miles. 



30 



reached the above estate about seven o'clock in the 
evening 9 and was joined by the detachment of the 1st 
West India) and the Rifle corps. Colonel Leahy 
arrived there, and took the command of the united 
force, amounting in all to nearly 300 men. The whole 
party then proceeded in marching order, as represented 
in Plate 13 *. On approaching Good Hope, a party of 



the Rifle corps took post at plantation Beehive, where they bi- 
vouacked, for the night, in the middle walk, and contiguous to the 
canal bridge, posting a picquet guard in the rear of the dwelling- 
house, and guards all around it- keeping a pa* role occasionally 
going between the two posts, [the Clc-nbrook and Beehive], com- 
municating mutually the intelligence of "All's Well." 

Friday. — This Morning, after a due examination into the proofs 
of their guilt, the rebels Beard, January, and Primo were shot, at 
plantation Clonbrook, by order of Colonel Leahy, who afterwards 
marched down the Coast with the Rifle corps, and two of the Ca- 
valry, calling at several places on the way, and ascertaining the 
situation and disposition of the slaves. At plantation Cove, the 
rebels Dublin and Aliick were shot; and Prince, of Nabaclis, was 
ordered for execution on the following morning, before the whole 
gang of the estate. On arrival at Bachelor's Adventure, a search 
made for the rebel chief Telemachus; not finding him, one of 
the drivers was taken as a hostage; proceeded down the Coast, and 
halted for the night at plantation Coldingen, where we met with 
Captain Stewart, and his detachment. 

Saturday. — This morning, previous to reaching Lusignan, the 
negro Telemachus was brought prisoner to us, and the hostage was 
released, according to promise; halted a short time at Lu sign an ; 
here Captain Stewart and his men left us; proceeded on to Cha- 
teau Margo, and from thence to plantation Plaisance, where we 
halted for three hours, refreshed, and marched into town, and,, 
meeting the General at the Camp bridge, we had the honour to 
accompany His Excellency through town, to the guard-house, 
where we deposited twelve prisoners, and were dismissed, with 
orders to turn out at sound of the bugle. 

* In the Plan, the troops are represented as halting in the order 
of mareli, their progress being impeded by a broken bridge, F. An 
advanced section of the Rifles, No. 7, formed right and left, Indian 
file, at the advance. The fatigue party of negroes, No. 6, then ad- 
vaneed with the plunks, and the troops passed over. 

1. Main body of the 21st. 

2, Rear guard, 1st West India, under Captain Stewart. 
5, Main body of the Rifle corps. 

1. Advanced guard of the 21st, under Captain Appelius. 

5. Baggage train, &c. 



31 



the 21st, and Rifle company, under the command of 
Captain Sutherland, and Lieutenant Kernan, was or- 
dered to advance on several negroes, who were observed 
keeping guard round the house. Coming up, they 
fired upon the military, which was immediately return- 
ed, and a charge made upon them, which dispersed 
them, with the loss of some killed and wounded. Four 
white men, whom they found in the gallery, gladly put 
themselves under the protection of the troops *. 

Proceeding on, they found the public bridges broken 
down by the insurgents, in order to impede their march ; 
but, having a party of negroes along with them, bear- 
ing planks, they were thus enabled to pass over the 
canals. Several straggling parties of rebels retreated 
into the cotton-pieces, as they advanced. On arriving 
at Lusignan, a body had again to be dislodged from 
the dwelling-house of that estate. On arriving at Col- 

A. Colonel Leahy. 

B. Captain Croal. 

C. Captain Stewart. 

D. Captain Appelius. 

E. Ammunition chest. 

* These persons had sustained a severe attack, about eight o'clock 
on the previous evening. The conduct of the negroes belonging 
to Good Hope, was desperate and determined in the extreme. 
They were joined by a body of insurgents from Beter Verwagting, 
and surrounded the dwelling house, in which was Mr. Lowrie, the 
manager, who made a spirited resistance. They commenced throw- 
ing lighted fire-sticks, and threatened, that if the arms were not 
delivered up, they would burn down the house. On Mr. Lowrie 
ordering a few domestics, who firmly adhered to him, to throw the 
fire-sticks out, as fast as they threw them in, a desperate ring-leader, 
named Harry, belonging to the plantation, called out to the rest of 
the gang, to break open the store-door, and set fire to a puncheon 
of rum, — and, rushing to the steps of the house, where stood the 
manager, he attempted to run him through the body with a cutLiss, 
fixed on a pole; but it fortunately passed through the sleeve of the 
jacket of a negro who was standing by. The villain, however, made 
a second attempt, by entering the back gallery of the house, declar- 
ing, " He did not care a d — n, he was a man," pointing his iance 
the same moment at the manager, who, with his musket and fixed 
bayonet, came to the charge. He and his overseers, however, were 
at last overpowered by numbers, and confined in the stocks. 
While in that situation^ one of the rebels threw a rope round the 
manager's neck. 



32 



dingen, the bugle sounded the halt*; they then observed 
that all the cotton-pieces were full of negroes; they 
afterwards proceeded on, firing on the rebels at inter- 
vals, until they arrived at Bachelor's Adventure, about 
3 o'clock on Wednesday, a. m. Lieutenant Peddie, who 
had been usefully employed in delivering the whites 
from the stocks, on the estates contiguous to Annan- 
dalef, was relieved by a small party of Militia, and 
ordered to join Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy, command- 
ing the troops on the main road. The advanced guard 



* The detachment of the 1st West India, forming the rear guard, 
arrived at Co! dingen some time after the main body, having been 
detained by difficulties which occurred in getting the baggage over 
the broken bridges. This did not escape the observation of a 
party of insurgents, who had the audacity to attack the detachment; 
but the Regulars firing two vollies in amongst the rebels, effectually 
dispersed them. 

•f In the morning of the 19th, about seven o'clock, Lieutenant 
Peddie, observing a strong body of negroes coming up the Coast, 
to join the insurgents already gone up, he proceeded, with Ensign 
Miles, and part of the detachment, to cut them off; and, after a 
few shots being fired at them, they retired in direction of town, 
from whence they came. Lieutenant Peddie then proceeded to 
the sugar-works aback of Lusignan, where he had learned that a 
manager and four overseers were in the stocks. On approaching 
the buildings, a body of upwards of two hundred negroes were 
assembled, armed with their cutlasses fixed to poles. Lieutenant 
Peddie formed his men to the front, and, on advancing, told the 
negroes he did not wish to fire on them, if they surrendered. After 
some parle, they did so, by bringing in their cutlasses, which were 
broken off the poles. The troops then proceeded to the sick- 
house, and there discovered the manager, Mr. Murray, and four 
overseers, with one leg in the stocks, and at breakfast,— who were 
released, on the appearance of the troops. The negroes were very 
submissive, and the manager observed, that they were well treated, 
when confined. The detachment then proceeded to Mon Repos, 
and were cordially received, by Mr. M'Kean, the manager, and 
five o\erbeers, who gladly put themselves under the protection of 
the troops, as they were led to expect a second attack, in case they 
did not submit to confinement, or negro sway [see page 9]. From 
excessive fatigue, two privates of the 21st were taken extremely 
ill; one became suddenly delirious, and was with difficulty convey- 
ed from Mon Repos back to Lusignan, where he was obliged to be 
hit with the manager. After a very fatiguing march, the troops 
got back to Annandale at sunset, and were relieved on the morning 
of the following day, ub above stated. 



of the Rifle corps observed a number of negroes about 
the buildings of Bachelor's Adventure, and, on firing 
a few shots amongst them, they fled into the cotton- 
fields. The Lieutenant-Colonel now learned, that the 
whole rebel force had assembled together at this place, 
amounting to at least two thousand. He ordered the 
troops to occupy the grounds about the buildings, where 
they remained under arms. At break of day, the ne- 
groes were now seen assembling on the main road op- 
posite the buildings, braving the soldiers to come on. 
Colonel Leahy went to them by himself, and endea- 
voured to persuade them to lay down their arms; he 
asked them what they wanted? — They said, two days 
in the week, and some of them said three. He told 
them, that if they surrendered their arms, and returned 
quietly borne, he would report to the Governor what 
they wanted; after which, he returned to his troops. 
Time having how elapsed, and perceiving no disposi- 
tion to deliver up their arms, and disperse, he went up 
to them a second time, accompanied by Captain CroaL 
They then said, that " they wanted their freedom — that 
the King had sent it out — and that they 'would be free? 
Colonel Leahy then took from his pocket the procla- 
mation of Martial Law, and read it to them. He 
asked if any of them could read, — when the rebel chier^ 
Jack Gladstone, advanced and presented a paper * to 
the Colonel, who in return gave to the rebel the pro- 
clamation, which had been previously read, advising 



* The following extracts from Jack Gladstone's defence, when 
on his trials will enable the reader to form some idea of what the 
nature of the document was, which that rebel presented to the 
Colonel:— 

" When Colonel Leahy, of the 2 1st Regiment, was at 

Bachelor's Adventure, I was at plantation Elizabeth Hail. I was 
called by the people to bring the paper, which had been signed by 
the different managers up the Coast, that they had been well 
treated. I passed through the people, and went up to Colonel 
Leahy, and gave it to him; he gave me, in return, a printed paper 
of the Governor's." 

And again, in another part of the defence— 

" The plans of signing of the papers, by the different gentlemen, 
was a plan that we had adopted to send to the Governor.' 1 



34. 



him, at the same time, to persuade the negroes to lay 
clown their arms, and return to their work. 

A violent rebel here came forward, and had the au- 
dacity to propose tying the Colonel, and Captain Croal, 
and securing their persons; but the above Jack, and 
other ringleaders, interfered, and prevented the attempt 
being made. Many of the rebels talked of going to 
the Governor; but the Colonel stated to them, that if 
they moved on to town to see the Governor, they would 
be hanged; and that, if they had any thing to commu- 
nicate to His Excellency, he [the Colonel] was the 
medium through w T hich the communication must be 
forwarded. The Colonel now left them, saying, that 
" he would give them half an hour to consider of it, 
and that, if they did not come to a determination to 
surrender in that time, he would fire on them." Several 
of the ringleaders now advanced near to the middle- 
walk, and stated, they wished to speak to the Colonel, 
whom they informed, that the negroes were determined 
to have nothing less than their freedom; on which he 
warned them, that he should bring out his troops to 
fire upon them. The troops were accordingly ordered 
out, — the detachments of the 1st West India and Rifle 
corps wheeling on their left, and the 21st on their right, 
so as to make a simultaneous attack on the rebels, who 
had divided into two large bodies, with a view of hem- 
ming in the whole force. The different corps formed 
upon the public road, as represented in the plan * 
[see Plate 1 3]. The officers commanding the different 



* In Plate 13, is a plan of the cotton plantation, Bachelor's Ad- 
venture, comprising the buddings; the public road, on this part of 
the Coast, being nearly in the direction of east and west. On the 
west side of the above plantation, is a Company Canal, having 
communication with the sea, and which divides the plantation from 
• of EBaabeth Hall. On the east side of Bachelor's Adventure, 
is a dam, or small road, thrown up, adjoining plantation Paradise, 
and which separated the two plantations. This road continues to 
the kick of the estates, and is called the company path, the side- 
line, or ride-dam,— having on each side of it a trench, always full 
of water, excepting in very dry weather. All estates in the Colony 
i: .w likewise a road passing through the centre of them, generally 
termed the middle- walk, or path, having also trenches on each 



SB 



corps <faalloa'd to the negroes, that it was not their wish 
to hurt them,— desiring them, at the same time, to lay 



side; and it will be observed in the Plan, that the buildings of Ba- 
chelor's Adventure are close to the middle-path of that plantation. 
The troops marched out to the attack, from the buildings, (where 
they were stationed,) to the public road, by the bridge No. 6. 

No. 1. The detachment of the 1st West India, under Captain 
Stewart, formed near the three bridges, Y. Y. 

2. The Rifle corps, commanded by Captain Croal. 

3. A hundred men of the 21st N. B. Fusil eers, under Captain 
Appelius. The small dots, a. a. a. represent large bodies of negroes 
coming down on the public road. At the points 4 and 5, two 
daring rebels approached near to B. [Captain Appelius]: one of 
them brandished a cutlass, and a bayonet, fixed upon a pole; and, 
on being desired to lay down his arms, replied, exultingly, " Never, 
never," and darted across the trench on the side of the road, into 
the cotton -piece. The other rebel, Cornelius, a mulatto, held a 
good musket, and wore cross-belts, with cartouch-box, &c. On 
being warned to surrender, he said, that he " would speak to his 
matty," and got off. In front of his men, with Captain Appelius, 
were Captain Sutherland, and Lieutenants Booth and Peddie. 

7. The cotton logie, occupied by the 21st. 

8. Residence of Mr. H. Rogers, occupied by the Rifle corps. 

9. The dwelling-house of the manager and attorney, Mr. Grant. 

10. Points where sentries were posted. 

11. The hospital. 

12. The point from whence the view of Plate iv. was taken. 

13. Place where Telemachus and Jemmy are hung in chains, as 
represented in Plate 1 2. 

14. Middle-walk of plantation Paradise, on each side of which 
are rows of tall cabbage trees. 

15. The dwelling-house of the above plantation, which was at- 
tacked on the night of the 18th. The following deposition of a 
witness, on the trial of the negro Gilbert, a driver on plantation 
Paradise, will show in what extreme jeopardy the whites were 
placed: — 

u William Rose Whitlocke Sivom. 
■> " I am overseer upon Paradise plantation. On Monday, the 

18th August, when the disturbance began, I was on the estate . 

About twelve o'clock on Monday night, above a thousand negroes 
came to the door, and demanded our arms, which we refused to 
give them. There were ten white people in the house. They then 
said, if we made any resistance, they would set fire to the house; 
there was no resistance made, and five or six of them came into the 
house, and demanded a candle to search for our arms, and went 
away. About half an hour after that, a second gang came; about 
three or four hundred came into the house, all armed, asked us 



36 



down their arms. One of the rebels, waving his cut- 
lass, braved them, with an air of, great defiance, " to 
come OB." Captain Stewart, of the 1st West India, 
then ordered Ins troops and the Rifle corps to fire, 
as represented in the view, [Plate 4], which had the 
effi ct instantly of making them rush, with great con- 
fusion, into the neighbouring cotton-piece, where a 
large body of the insurgents had already taken up their 
!. Here a continued fire was kept up, for some 
minutes, on both sides. The detachment of the 21st 
at the same time engaged the other body of the insur- 
gents, and, after a few vollies, they were completely 
routed. The bugle then sounded, to cease firing; 
the different corps united, and formed on the main 
road, on the bridge opposite the buildings, — during 
which time, a large body of negroes had assembled to 
westward. Colonel Leahy sent forward a prisoner to 



questions, and put us into the stocks. * * * They took, I believe, 
about four brace of pistols, four double-barrelled and three or four 
gingle barrelled guns; two or three muskets; a great deal of pow- 
der and small shot; there were a very few ball-cartridges; a great 
deal of shot." 

The capital letters point out the situation of the Officers Com- 
m&ncpng, who were all on foot. 

A. Colonel Leahy— B. Captain Appelius — C. Captain Stewart— 
D. Captain Croal — E. Lieutenant Kernan. 

b. The cow-house, which was set fire to by the rebels, and en- 
tirely consumed, when the rencontre with the rebels terminated. 

\<>. 6,- -At this point, a bugler of the 21st Fusileers was wantonly 
murdered, by the rebel negro Jemmy. The bugler was in the 
cotton logie, [No, 7], leaning against the partition, when the ring* 
leader Joseph came in, and dragged him into the middle of the 
floor, and asked him for his sword. The soldier replied, " He had 
BOfie;" and, on his endeavouring to escape, the rebel Joseph fired 
at him, but without effect; and, while making all possible speed 
toward, the public road, was encountered by the negro Jem my, 
who knocked him down with a blunderbuss, and shot him, while 
pro brat* on the mound. The fate of this private of the 21st was 
much re-retted In the regiment, in which he bore a good character. 
At the commencement of the rencontre, one of the rebels was 
V in e. erclv wounded, his arm being dreadfully shattered. — 
which was immediately amputated, by the Surgeon oi' the 1st West 
/'♦vlia. 



37 

them , to tell them to lay clown their arms, and he would 
not fire on them again. The person* who conducted 
the prisoner, went some distance from the troops, and 
told the insurgents what the Colonel had said: some 
of them then came and laid down their arms at his feet. 
The prisoner, in the mean time, who had been despatch- 
ed to the main body, to acquaint them with the Colonel's 
determination, never returned afterwards. Mr. Gor- 
don, the messenger, then joined the troops. 

The bugles now sounded the advance, and, as the 
troops passed plantation Paradise, a detachment under 
Captain Stewart, and a division of the Rifle corps, 
under Captain Croal, were ordered on to the buildings 
of that estate; but, meeting with no obstruction, re- 
turned by the side-dam of the next estate, and rejoined 
the main body. At Nabaclis, they halted for about 
two hours, and took refreshment f. About noon, they 



* Mr. James Gordon, of Mahaicony, a very respectable free mart 
of colour, who voluntarily accompanied the Rifle corps, and, by his 
individual exertions, and obliging attention to their comforts, on 
every occasion, made himself so extremely useful, that the corps, 
in token of his excellent conduct, presented him a handsome silver 
eup, with appropriate ornaments* 

f While at Nabaclis, a party of the 21st was ordered over to 
plantation John, to release Mr. Hopkinson, who had been put in 
the stocks. As the troops were passing plantation Nooten Zuyi ? 
a female was observed running up the dam of that estate, calling 
out for help. A party of the 21st and Rifle corps, was immediately 
ordered to proceed to the buildings, where they found the manager*, 
Mr. Andrew Shanks, delirious 3 having been in the stocks, He ac- 
cordingly was brought down, and proceeded on with the troops. 

The following copy of a letter from Mr. A. Shanks, manager of 
plantation Nooten Zuyl, will be perused with feelings of sympathy, 
for the mental sufferings endured by that aged individual, on account 
of the conduct of the revolters. He continued in a state of de- 
rangement for several weeks. 

Nooten Zuyl, cjc. 

Dear Sir— On the 18th of August last, about ten at night, five 
of the Georgetown Cavalry, on their way to Mahaica Post, with an 
express, called in at this estate, saying, that a revolt of the East 
Coast negroes, it was strongly suspected, would break out that 
night, and begged me, therefore, to accompany them to Mahaica. 
I, however, declined, on the ground, that if such would really take 
place, no doubt the whites would be summoned, with all haste, to 

E 



S8 



proceeded forward, joined by a large body of flutes 
Lul coloured people; and arrived at the Mahaica Pos. 

i , la . Frei .!. ,-v .us, and I should prefer to join them. After the 
< Llrj bad left, 1 called my mulatto serva nt, Daniel and had t 
jam loaded and put up stairs in my bed-room, foi the sate ot pre 

'"Sbout midnight, two or three white persons from . the [ next es- 
tate, BeUefield? called upon me to state, [by the roque* of W£ 
Pollard, 1 think], that commotions among the slaves we e «PF« 
bended to be at hand; but they did not communicate where 01 
v ben the whites should muster to defend themselves. 

On Tuesdav morning I arose, as usual. at sun-r.sc an d ha vn a 
the gout, satin the gallery of the bouse, with my 
Hinoow I then took my coffee, and observed nothing unu tw, 
till about seven o'clock, when we observed a loud wise M>j>eg 
Routing and howling. The servant Daniel got the 
munition ready, assisted by the boy John Shngard, who W?g 
as an overseer on the estate. We then saw four white men X to- 
ri* from the BeUefield, in our direction, closely pursued by ta£ 
drcds of armed and unarmed negroes. I he whites ru 1 ed into 
the ho.,.;., panting for breath, and many negroes without ar ms 
came at their beefs; immediately after which, those onWje.^? 

OT us . The negroes then endeavoured to make them- 
idres marten of our arms, which was easily aceomplished,-t.ie 
four whites being already exhausted by running, and uiysett uej 
v n lame and infirm. The boy Daniel, however, defendeo one oi 
I three doors of the house, with the greatest courage and intre- 
pedity.Wing shot off half of the fingers from the hand of a man, 
fcdon^ng to Clonbrook, and fought his way through the aimed 
« m .:. after being wounded. 1 his hoy seized a horse ana _g.d.o P cd 
Off to give mtenigence at the Military Post, having called in on Ins 
Way at the Hope Ann's Grove, and Clonbrook. After commum- 
catnu the breaking out of the revolt to Lieutenant Brady be was 
, n b; that Officer, to proceed with his information to Major 
ink's, at Mahaiea, who gave him arms; and tefoaghttMt 
afternoon on the side of the military, and every day after, until ail 
over. Ton conduct was worthy of all praise, and deserves 
■ . public mailt of approbation. 

fout white men 1 have alluded to, my overseer, and myse.t, 
*ere won put in the stocks; but, after remaining a few hours tne 
, , ba, ing heard that their party had sustained a severe check 
„,;„, tht . military, they Ictus out, and conducted the Be Upheld 
,,,,,,,1,. ,., their own estate. The boy Shngard and mj self were 
« ., :„„..; to the house, under a strong guard, headed by two fellows 
of our own, named Jim and Jassen. I now considered that my 
, Eftled, havipg no hope of escape, from my enfeebled 
... ,„ ,„ i.lth, and bodily pain. Horrified at the thought of being 
rd, i wallowed a large quantity of opium, which was witnm 



39 



about four o'clock, p. m. # The Rifles were then or- 
dered to occupy the buildings of plantation Lancaster, . 
where they remained. 



my reach, in order to give my expected murderers the slip. Daniel's 
sister, in the mean time, having overheard our gaolers whisper that 
Daniel had made his escape, and joined Lieutenant Brady against . 
them, and that Captain Gravesande was coming down next day* 
with five hundred Bucks, besides the King's troops, — she saw they 
were beginning to waver, and began immediately to shake and 
rouse me from the stupor into which I had necessarily fallen, in 
consequence of the opium I had taken. She forced me to drink 
large quantities of mi!k, warm from the cow, until I had dislodged 
most part of the deleterious drug ; and I found myself so far re- 
covered afterwards, as to be able to proceed to Mahaica Post with 
the troops from town, who had released the whites confined on the 
estates below. 

Whether it was from the effects of the opium I had taken, or 
from a blow I had received from a negro on the back of the head, 
when seized at the house-door, I cannot say; but I unfortunately 
became delirious, and did not recover from that heavy affliction/ 
till after I had been suffering under it for several weeks. 

I am, Dear Sir, &c. 

(Signed) Andrew Shanks. 

April 10, 1824. 

The following deposition of a witness on the trial of a young 
daring rebel, named Hugh, alias Few, belonging to plantation 
Nooten Zuyl, strongly shows how much reason Mr. Shanks had to 
suspect the most cruel treatment from the rebels, notwithstanding 
he was universally known to be a kind and indulgent master. 

John MXean Sworn. 

I am the late manager of plantation Bellefield. I know the 
Prisoner Hugh, commonly called Few; he belongs to Nooten Zuyl. 
On Tuesday, the 19th, about six o'clock in the morning, I was put 
into the stocks at Nooten Zuyl, by a large body of negroes; they 
were armed with not less than fifty guns, besides pistols, swords, 
cutlasses, and bayonets. I saw the prisoner among the crowd, 
when I was in the stocks; I heard him recommending the crowd 
to take us out of the stocks, and flog us, and then put us back ; I 
am positive prisoner was the man ; I was surprised to see his daring 
conduct before his own manager, [Mr. Andrew Shanks], who was 
in the stocks also. 

By the Court.— -His language was, " He good take out dem buck- 
ra, and flog 'em, and den put 'em back again." He then went 
away with the crowd. 

* The individuals who placed themselves under the protection of 
the troops, on their march to Mahaica, amounted to a considerable 



40 



On the same morning of Wednesday, the rebels 
being still in the vicinity of the Post, and the bridge of 
plantation Beehive, — Lieutenant Brady marched out 
of the Post, before six in the morning, with the rein- 
forcement under Lieutenants Hennis and Beete, and a 
party of Militia under Major Gravesande \ On his 
arriving near the plantation Grove, Lieutenant Brady 
met with the insurgents, and closely pursued them 
through the above estate, and that of Orange Nassau, 
to the draw-bridge of plantation Greenfield, where the 
insurgents were drawn up in a large body, on the south 
side of the canal, between that plantation and the ad- 
joining one of Beehive. Many of the rebels, well 
armed, were observed lying in ambush, among the 
thickets of bush growing on the abandoned land on the 
south side of the canal. Lieutenant Brady according- 
ly ordered some of his men, with a few of the Militia, 
to clear away the bush,— in consequence of which, 
many were discovered, and shot, while endeavouring to 
escape, making resistance, or refusing to surrender. 
Many of them who escaped, made off through the 
cane-fields of plantation Beehive, proceeding up the 
side-lines of that estate, in a direct course aback. At 
the draw-bridge of Beehive, the party halted, and 
Lieutenant Brady sent a detachment to Clonbrook, to 
release those who were in confinement, and others who 
were prevented by the rebels from leaving the estate- 
Among the latter were females, one of whom was the 
mother of the Messieurs Rogers f, and several domestics 
attached to the family. The detachment, on arriving 

number, by the time the main body arrived at the Military Post, 
the point towards which, persons of every description resorted to 
for temporary protection. Indeed, the Post at Mahaica, and its 
immediate vicinity, exhibited a singular appearance. The assem- 
blage of Whites, Mulattoes, Blacks, and Indians, — their diversity of 
dress, and discordant voices, — produced an effect, not easily to be 
de scribed. An Officer of the 21st compared it to an encampment 
of Cossacks. 

• On arriving at the draw-bridge on the public road, west side- 
line of plantation Unity, the planks were discovered to have been 
torn up, and the door of the draw-bridge of plantation Grove taken 
away. The party passed over by means of large planks. 

f Proprietors of that estate. 



at Clonbrook, encountered an armed rebel, [Antrim, 
belonging to Ann's Grove], who, on refusing to sur- 
xender, was shot dead. They proceeded aback of the 
negro-houses, where, meeting with many of the rebels, a 
few of them were fired upon, and some shots took effect. 

Those who were in confinement on the plantation, 
or prevented leaving it, were taken under the protection 
of the detachment. Among those confined in the stocks 
at Clonbrook, was the negro Jack Adams % a domestic 
of Mr. Rogers, who had been most cruelly beaten and 
knocked down by January f, one of the rebels who 
took a very active part in the revolt. 

The detachment returned from Clonbrook, and pro- 
ceeded on with the rest of the force under Lieutenant 
Brady, down the middle-path of plantation Beehive, 
and returned to the Post by the public road J, where 
they arrived at half-past ten o'clock, a. m. Four hours 



* This negro meritoriously remained faithful to his owner. On 
the morning of the 19th, he had in charge for his master a consid- 
erable quantity of ammunition in a box; and, when near to plan- 
tation Clonbrook, observing the rebels were advancing rapidly upon 
him, he got up into a thatched building in front of the dwelling- 
house of that estate, with intent to secret the ammunition, and 
prevent its falling into the hands of the rebels; but, unfortunately, 
he was discovered by the desperate ringleader January, who im- 
mediately ordered the house to be set on fire, — which was instantly 
executed; and, on Jack Adams rushing out, and endeavouring to 
escape, he was knocked down by January, as above related. 

f This man January was captain of the schooner of plantation 
Clonbrook, and had received the greatest indulgence from his _ 
owners, having never in any instance received a single stripe; and 
it is remarkable, that his conduct was always of the most exemplary 
nature, anterior to the revolt. On Monday afternoon previous to 
the commencement of the insurrection, he gave orders to his boat- 
people to unship the rudder of the schooner. On the Friday after 
the arrival of Colonel Leahy at the Post, he was tried by a drum- 
head Court-Martial, and sentenced to be shot— as likewise the 
negro Edward, belonging to the same plantation. The sentence 
was executed the same day; and, after they were shot, their bodies 
were hung up on the draw-bridge, between Clonbro< k and Ann's 
Grove, and there remained in terrorem until Saturday evening. 

X The young man Daniel, belonging to Mr. Shanks, was one of 
the party, and who, perceiving, on his arrival at the public road, 
that it was not the intention of Lieutenant Brady at that time to 
go to plantation Nooten Zuyl, (where he believed his master was 



42 



had BQarcely elapsed after their arrival, when a fire 
was iliscvnv' J in the direction of Clonbrook, which af- 
terwards was found to proceed from the sheep-pen of 
that estate, the rebels having maliciously set it on fire. 

About half an hour after the arrival of Colonel 
Leahy, Lieutenant Brady again marched out of the 
Post/ and proceeded to plantation Beehive, in conse- 
quence of the driver of that estate bringing him infor- 
mation, that the gang to which he belonged would lay 
down their arms. The detachment consisted of Lieu- 
tenant Hennis, with two three-pounders, and twenty 
men of the 2 1st Fusileers. The bridges having been 
rendered passable, they soon arrived at the Beehive, 
and found the gang drawn up, who accordingly laid 
down their c;ul: 1 -cs ; but requested either to be taken 
prisoners to the Post, or allowed to retain their arms, 
as they believed the Clonbrook people would certainly 
murder them. Colonel Leahy, having sent Captain 
Stewart with a detachment, to form a post at the dwel- 
ling-hou.se of the Beehive, the negroes were suffered to 
remain on the estate. The driver, while at \he draw- 
bridge opposite the house, had a narrow escape from 
die treachery of a daring rebel. He was beckoned to 
by a negro on the opposite side of the bridge, near a 
hedge, apparently wishing to communicate with him. 
The driver accordingly went up to him; and the instant 
the villain imagined he was sufficiently near, he fired 
a pistol at the driver, [but without effect], who imme- 
diately and closely pursued him with a cutlass, and 
had nearly taken off his head. One of the 21st having 
fired at the rebel, the driver, for his own safety, threw 
h : m.-eif on his lace; and, as there were women and 



ItiH in confinement,) burst into tears, threw down his musket, ant?, 
evidently agitated, inquired whether they were not going to the 
relid'oi his master— and that, if they would only allow a few men 
to go w'rtU him, he would readily accompany them. Lieutenant 
Brady being in advance at this moment, and the whole of the party 
under Ofden for the Post, his request was unavailing. 

* The Degrees on all estates are supplied with cutlasses, with 
which they cut the sugar cune, weed, chop wood, trim the cotton 
and collet- phii?, 6c v. &c. 



43 



children promiscuously about the premises,, the military 
avoided firing, and the scoundrel escaped. 

Lieutenant Brady and the detachment under him 
returned to the Post, and arrived there in the evening, 
at eight o'clock # . 



* In Plate 13, is a small Map of the Coast, in the vicinity of 
Mahaica Creek. It will be observed, that the Canal joins the mouth 
of the Creek. 

A. The draw bridge from which Lieutenant Brady retreated. 

B. The draw-bridge of Beehive. 

C. The draw-bridge of Greenfield. 

D. The great draw bridge on the public road. 

E. The draw-bridge between Dochfour and Hope. 

F. Buildings of Clonbrook. 

G. Dwelling-house of plantation Beehive. 

H. Shipping- house of Greenfield. 
J. Dwelling-house of do. 

K. The point from whence the view of the Post was taken. 

L. Buildings of plantation Lancaster. 

M. The Military Post. 

a. b. c. d. e. The public road. 

c. The respective estates, 12 in number.— 1, Lancaster; 2, Unity i 
3, Grove; 4, Orange Nassau; 5, Greenfield; 6, Beehive; 7, Clon- 
brook; 8, Ann's Grove; 9, Dochfour; 1G 3 Hope; 11, Lowlands; 
12, Nooten Zuyl. 

The small dots on the side of the Canal, nearly opposite to the 
buildings of Clonbrook, denote the party of Lieutenant Brady; he 
was in the midst, as is denoted by the cross. The other small dots 
on each side of the Canal, to the westward, denote the insurgents 
in pursuit. 

m. The point from whence the view of plate 2 is taken. 

o. The small inlet, which slightly retarded the advance of the 
rebels on that side of the Canal. 

f The Mahaica Creek at its mouth is about 150 yards wide, and 
runs in the direction of south-east to north, taking its rise among the 
numerous savannas or morasses, which are so common in the in- 
terior of this country, and receiving many tributary Creeks, in its 
progress to the Ocean. At a little distance above its junction with 
the Atlantic, is situated an inconsiderable village, which takes its 
name from the Creek, and on both sides of it are several plantations, 
which have the advantage of its convenient navigation, to convey 
their produce in schooners along the sea-coast, to the ships in the 
Demerara River. 



44i 

In the mean time, the following Proclamation was 
|( red to ik j made known to the negroes throughout 
the United Colony: — 

By His Excellency Major-General JOHN MURRAY, Lieutenant- 
Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and 



(,,) 



over the United Colony of Demerara and 

JOHN MURRAY. Essequebo, &c. &c. &c. 

Various measures being in contemplation by His Majesty's Govern- 
ment for meliorating the condition of the Slave Population in the 
Colonies, and of progressively qualifying them for an extension of 
privileges,— I have deemed it expedient to issue this my Proclama- 
tion, hereby notifying to that part of the Slave Population of this 
United Colony which still continues faithful and obedient to their 
Masters, that any general misconduct or acts of insubordination on 
part of that Population, similar to those evinced by the unfor- 
tunately misguided Slaves on some of the estates to windward, 
cannot fail to render totally abortive the proposed measures of His 
Majesty's Government, — which depend necessarily on their peace- 
able, temperate, and industrious behaviour; an opposite line of 
conduct will forfeit all their claims upon the liberality of the British 
Government, and utterly disqualify them from benefiting in any 
manner by its favourable disposition towards them. 

The consequence of the misconduct of those Slaves, is, that they 
are at this moment suffering all the horrors attendant on the exis- 
tence of Martial-Law, which I have been compelled to put in force 
in that part of the Colony, with all its accompanying severity. 

Ght n under my Hand and Seal of Office, at the King's House in 
Georgetown, this 20th day of August, 1823, and in the Fourth 
Year of His Majesty's Reign. 

6oir Sake tfee Sit tig* 

By Command of His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, 

JOHN MURRAY, Gov. Seo. 



4*5 



Meantime, the Provisional and Marine Battalions 
continued, with zeal and steadiness, to patrolethe streets; 
prisoners from the Coast were now beginning to be 
brought in; and, as intelligence had been received, that 
a number of those engaged in the rebellion had fled 
to the woods, it was resolved to call in the assistance 
of a body of Indians, Acaways, Arawaks, with others 
from Essequebo River, in order to search the bush for 
the fugitives. 

On the evening of this day, between eight and nine 
o'clock, a party of Militia being stationed at Post Fe- 
licity, a negro came up with a fire-brand in his hand, 
and stated, that he had been sent by the rebels aback 
of the estates; and that if they [the soldiers] were wil- 
ling to fight, they must come where his people were; 
and that if the military did not come, they wpuld be 
upon them by morning. This fellow was immediately 
taken prisoner, by order of Captain M'Turk. The 
detachment was ordered to be all under arms,./and pre- 
pared for attack. At nine o'clock on Thursday, the 
21st, after having taken some refreshment, they were 
ordered to march; and, after having proceeded about 
two miles and a half beyond the buildings of Le Re- 
souvenir and Success, observed about three hundred 
negroes among the growing canes; they were directed, 
however, not to fire upon them, but to come upon them* 
unless they fired first. The main body scattered itself* 
in all directions; the most of them fled chiefly in the 
direction of the buildings of the above estates, where 
they afterwards hoisted a white flag. 

This day in town, about one o'clock, p. m., the 
alarm-drums suddenly beat to arms, on a report having 
been received, that the negroes were approaching in 
large force, and that they had been seen in the very 
neighbourhood: it appeared evident that they designed 
an attack. The Militia and the Marine Battalion were 
under arms in a few minutes, and disposed on the sides 
of the town more obviously threatened; their zeal and 
promptitude on this occasion, indeed, would have done 
credit to the best disciplined troops. The main guard, 
under Major Frankland, was the first to meet the dan- 



46 



gen It proved, however, that the alarm was; caused 
by the Thomas negroes, an estate adjoining the town, 
[see Han of Georgetown, Plate 13], who had been 

erely ordered to go with their cutlasses to work in a 
cane-field adjacent to the public streets. 

We shall now return to the troops sent from town,, 
whom we left at the Military Post at Mahaica. On 
Thursday, the 21st, the Rifles remained the whole day, 
doing duty.. In the evening, they received orders to 
march with their prisoners to Beehive; and a detach- 
ment of the Regulars, under Captain Appelius, was 
directed to proceed to Clonbrook. 

The main body of the Rifle corps took up quarters, 
for the night, in the open air, in the path leading to 
the dwelling-house of Beehive. About midnight, two 
shots were fired over their heads, and they immediately 
stood to their arms; on inquiry, it was learned that 
they proceeded from a sentinel of the 21st Fusileers, 
stationed at the Clonbrook, who had fired at a negro, 
attempting to rush past him. 

At day-break of Friday, the 22d, three of the Rifle- 
men were ordered out to search for arms; and on the 
path leading to Clonbrook, they picked up a bundle, 
containing silver spoons, clothes, and table-linen, which 
proved afterwards to be the property of Mr. and Mrs. 
Van Barle. 

Early this morning, one of the negro prisoners men- 
tioned to the sentries placed^ over them, that if they 
would allow him to go to Colonel Leahy, he would 
give up the names of all those "who made the war." 
This offer being communicated to the Colonel, he or- 
dered the prisoner to be immediately conducted to him, 
On his being sent back, a rebel negro, named Beard, 
father of the noted leader, Telemachus, told him indig- 
nantly, he was a d — d coward, and a fool, for betraying 
his friend— and that for his part, he would have prefer- 
red being shot on the spot, rather than give up their 
names. This remark was immediately reported to 
Colonel Leahy, who, having previously been informed 
that this Beard was peculiarly active and violent in the 
r voltj ordered him to be tried summarily by the Offi- 



4<7 



€ers, who immediately found him guilty; after which, 
he was marched over to the Clonbrook, and there shot 
by two file of the 2 1st Fusileers, and Rifles. On the 
same day and place, the chief rebels, January, Edward, 
Prince, and Primo, underwent a similar fate. The 
detachment of the Rifles now returned to the Beehive; 
and Colonel Leahy having arrived with a small party 
of Cavalry, he issued orders to the Rifle corps to pro- 
ceed on with him to town. On arriving near to the 
plantations Northbrook and Craig Miln, they observed 
a large assemblage of blacks on the side-line between 
the above estates, but who, on seeing the military, im- 
mediately fled ; the Colonel, suspecting them to be re- 
bels, ordered the Cavalry? and two sections of the Rifle 
corps, to charge, and the bugle sounded the advance. 
On coming up to the estate buildings, they found that 
the gang had fled to the Drogerie, and there formed 
in regular order, most of them exhibiting pieces of 
white cloth over various parts of their bodies, as an in- 
dication of their wish to sue for peace. On the troops 
approaching nearer to them, they cried out, that " they 
liad nothing to do with the war." Colonel Leahy 
therefore read to them the Governor's Proclamation of 
Martial-Law, and ordered it to be aflixed to the door 
of the Logie. Finding that these people were submis- 
sive and well-disposed, the troops marched on to plan- 
tations John and Cove, where the whole of the gang 
was ordered to appear; which was done, with the ex- 
ception of one man, named Allick, who was reported 
to be absent, both by the proprietor, Mr. Hopkinson, 
and several of the negroes. The Colonel, however, in 
distrust, sent a file of Riflemen to the negro-houses, in 
search of him, as he was a notorious ringleader; and 
there they did find him, and secure him, after he had 
vainly endeavoured to escape. He was led forth as a 
prisoner, in presence of the whole gang, and, with the 
negro Dublin, another leader and driver on the same 
estate, was tied to a cabbage-tree and shot, after full 
proof had been received of their guilt. The Colonel 
then ordered Lieutenant Kernan, with a party of the 
Rifle corps, and some of the Cavalry, to proceed to the 



48 



negro-houses in search of arms, and they discovered %. 
great quantity of ammunition, particularly under the 
i or of AUick's house, together with some muskets» 
About one o'clock, the drivers and their wives were 
ordered up to the Colonel, and interrogated as to their 
knowledge of the concealment of any other fire-arms, 
&e ; they stoutly denied all knowledge whatever as to 
such a matter; and, being strongly suspected, it was 
considered advisable to march them over as prisoners 
to plantation Nabaclis. On arriving at that estate, part 
of the gang was already assembled, whom , the Colonel 
ordered to give up their ringleaders *. They denied 
that they were there, observing, that a large proportion 
of the gang was also away from the estate. The inili- 



* Mr. Forbes, one of the two overseers who was murdered at 
; tbaclis, did not expire from his wounds until Tuesday, the 19th, 
it midnight. The following extracts from the deposition of Mr, 
and Mrs. Walrond, on the trial of the negro Murphy, belonging to 
plantation Foulis, will exemplify the wanton cruelty and daring 
conduct displayed by some of the insurgents: — 

Mrs. Walkond Sworn, 
* * * In my way down stairs, I was obliged to see Mr, 
Tucker*. As they seemed to possess some sentiments of religion, 
I thought of speaking to them of Mr. Tucker's murder, which 1 had 
heard of, and being obliged to see him on my way down. After 
recovering the first shock, / wait up to Jus body, and asked them 
why they committed such an act? — They then declared, that they 
did not kill him; that he had cut his throat himself. The man 
Joseph was standing by, and untied his cravat, and which proved 
that it was not the case. * * * When I was in the sick-house, 
where the prisoner was on guard, the dying overseer called to me, 
asked if I could get a doctor to dress his wounds. I went to 
the prisoner, and entreated him to get a guard, and bring Dr. Go\- 
die over to try and relieve and dress his wounds; and further to 
excite his compassion, I requested him to look through a crevice of 
the door, which had been broken, and see the state of the overseer, 
and have mercy on him. The prisoner said, " No, let him die." I 
found it useless to ask him any more, and he left me. The overseer 
died at twelve on Tuesday night, when I was sitting up with him. 
\> c w e re set at liberty again on Wednesday morning. I might 
bate gone to the house, as far as I could judgo, at any time> but I 
v.ould not leave the overseer. 

♦ He was murdered, and lying dead in the halL 



49 

tary, &c. then proceeded on, passed Golden Grove % 



"Mr. Walrond Sworn, 
% # # " The gang had mostly left the yard, and a servant be- 
longing to Mr. Reid, head-driver of the estate, called Jemmy, eame^ 
and took my feet out of the stocks. Rodney, belonging to Bache- 
lor's Adventure, the guard over me, made some sign, and they re- 
turned; one of them chopped Jemmy on the lutle finger. Rodney 
was on guard all the day; very kind to me, by allowing my feet to 
be taken out of the stocks, but replaced them when any of them 
were coming into the yard. About five, or half-past five, the gang 
returned, when I was replaced by Rodney, and the door locked; 
it was ordered to be opened, and I to be released, provided I would 
sign papers, which I requested to see. I was taken out, and two 
papers were presented to me at the door. A man named Sloane 
held a pistol in his hand (he is now in confinement at Paradise); 
another man, said to be Telemachus, presented me the papers — 
[Papers handed to witness, and identified]. — On reading the second 
paper, I said, how could I sign this, when you have murdered the 
two overseers? The fellow who handed the papers said, ' What's 
that you say, Sir?' — and immediately Sloane cocked the pistol. 
Mrs. Walrond whispered, ' My dear, sign them,' and I did so." 

* On this plantation, at the commencement of the revolt, a party 
of four gentlemen, {viz. Mr. Gainfort, the manager, Dr. Goldie, Mr. 
Rafierty, and Mr. Arnot,) here made a brave, though unsuccessful 
resistance, against an armed mob, consisting of nearly three hundred 
negroes. 

On the 19th of August, at four o'clock in the morning, the in- 
surgents surrounded the dwelling-house, and attempted to force 
open the back-door, in which they succeeded; the party instantly 
fired upon them, and they retreated. Other attempts were made 
to enter the house; but a constant fire from within, for about half 
an hour, kept the rebels off. A daring negro, however, contrived 
to enter a window unperceived, and he immediately made an assault 
on Dr. Goldie with his cutlass, which, in endeavouring to parry, 
severely wounded him in the hand. The Doctor was armed with 
a loaded blunderbuss; but, in consequence of the situation of Mr. 
Gainfort at the moment, the Doctor was prevented firing, fearing 
he might wound him — bnt with the piece succeeded in knocking 
down the rebel, who instantly expired. At this period of the con- 
test, Mr. Arnot was badly wounded in the wrist. The party still 
maintained their ground; but the insurgents, finding they could not 
get possession of the house, nor take the party prisoners, resolved 
to set fire to it, by igniting a puncheon of rum with a quantity of 
flaming dry grass. Mr. Gainfort now remonstrated with them, but 
without effect; and one fellow, during the time that the manager 
was addressing them, repeatedly took aim at him with a musket, 
which danger Mr. Gainfort avoided, by alternately withdrawing 



50 

and halted at plantation Haslington, where they found 



from the direction of the piece. One of them cried out, that iF 
the party could not be taken by arms, they should be by fire; and 
instantly the combustibles were in flames ; the house was filled with 
smoke; and the party, unable to maintain their post, in consequence, 
immediately rushed out. Mr. Gainfort had proceeded but a few 
yards from the house, when he was wounded in two places in the 
neck, from a musket loaded with sings; and he was taken prisoner, 
as also Mr. Arnot and Mr. FcafTerty. Dr. Goldie, however, made off 
to an adjoining cotton-piece, after successfully resisting a fellow on 
the way, who endeavoured to cnt him down. The rebels were 
divided into two parties, one of whom was for killing Mr. Gainfort 
outright; but the other party rescued him, to be reserved for future 
vengeance. They immediately stript him naked, and dragged him 
by the feet over rough shells, which covered the ground. A ne- 
gro named A! lick, of plantation Cove, interfered, and allowed him 
to walk to the sick-house, where was placed the stocks; and on his 
way thither, he was severely horse-whipped, by several of the in- 
surgents, wounded in the arm with a bayonet, and sadly bruised 
in various parts of his body. He was fastened in the stocks, as 
likewise Mr. Arnot and Mr. Rafferty, and a strong guard placed 
over them. While they were in this situation, a straggling party 
of the insurgents came to them, and wanted to kill Mr Gainfort, 
but were prevented by the guard. 

Dr Goldie, on retreating to the cotton-field, remained unper- 
ccived, by lying down in a drain, or trench, his body immerged in 
water, saving his face. In this deplorable situation he could not 
remain for a continuance, being greatly annoyed by the mosquitoes 
and the ants; he therefore, after some hours thus concealed, re- 
turned to the house, for the purpose of seeking dry clothes, was 
taken prisoner, on entering the door, and was confined in the 
storks with the others. After twelve hours' confinement, they 
were released by the rebel chiefs Jack, Sandy, and Paris, who had 
returned with a Inrge force from Mahaica. They accommodated 
them with a guard of negroes, and advised them to go the negro- 
houses on the estate, which they accordingly did; and, on the 
following morning, (Wednesday,) at ten o'clock, the party were 
relieved from their perilous situation, by a detachment under 
Lieutenant Peddie, from the main body of the 2lst N. B. Fusileers, 
) had just arrived in the neighbourhood of Golden Grove, from 
Bachelor's Adventure. Mr Gainfort and his fellow-sufferers then 
proceeded on with the troops to Mahaica Post, where they re- 
' (aided, and had the benefit of medical assistance. Mr. Arnot's 
wound, for want of timely dressing, mortified, and his life was 
Bftved by the amputation of his arm. Dr. Goldie, from his remaining 
so long in the water, and the fatigue he underwent, was afflicted 
with an inflammatory fever, of which he ultimately died, three 
weeks after the commencement of the revolt. 



51 



a party of the 21st Fusileers stationed*; having taken 
some refreshment, they resumed their march about 
eight in the evening, and halted at Bachelor's Adven- 
ture f. The troops filed in immediately; after which, 
Colonel Leahy demanded of the first negroes he met 
with, the rebel Telemachus* to be delivered up to him. 
They pointed to his house, and instantly a party of the 
Riflemen were ordered to surround it; the doors were 
forced, and a general search was directed to be made, 
but without success. On this, Colonel Leahy took one 
of the head-drivers as a hostage, with a promise that 
he should be liberated, on producing Telemachus. 
The Rifle Corps, with Lieutenant- Colonel Leahy, then 
proceeded to Coidingen with the prisoners, where they 
remained on duty during the night. 

Early on Friday morning, an Official Communication 
was published by His Excellency the Governor, of the 
operations of the troops, which will not be improper 
to re-publish in this place. 



The dwelling-house of plantation Golden Grove, when visited 
after the attack, was found to be in the most ruinous state, plun- 
dered of every thing, furniture totally destroyed, and the floors 
covered with blood. The violence displayed by the rebels towards 
Mr. Gainfort, the manager, was remarkable, that gentleman's char- 
acter for humanity, and mild treatment of negroes, being well 
known in Demerara, where he has been an old resident, and uni- 
versally respected. 

* While halting at Kaslington, a corporal and file of men were 
sent over to Golden Grove, for the purpose of searching for arms; 
and, on entering one of the negro-houses, they discovered a negro, 
who appeared to be in great agony. On questioning hinvhe stated, 
as well as he was able, that when some of the rebels had set fire to 
a puncheon of rum, which he endeavoured to extinguish, they 
pushed him into the flames, by which means a great portion of his 
body was severely burnt. It exhibited a shocking spectacle. 

•f A private of the Rifle corps related, that while on duty as 
sentry near the out-buildings of this estate, he observed a negro, 
and hailed him. He answered, " Massa, me friend, me go for cook 
plantains for aw you," and hurried on— when immediately after- 
wards, was heard the report of a musket from the adjoining sentry, 
who had shot the negro, while endeavouring to pass him. On ex- 
amining the body, there was found in his hat twenty rounds of 
auuimaition I 



52 



HEAD-QUARTERS, AT CAMP- HOUSE, 

August 22d, 1823. 

His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief has great satisfaction in 
communicating to the public, the success which has hitherto attend- 
ed the operations against the revolted Negroes on the East Coast 
of this Colony, in which quarter alone the spirit of Rebellion has- 
been openly manifested. 

On Monday night, detachments of the 21st Fusileers, and 1st 
West India Regiment; who had marched from the garrison under 
the command of Captain Stewart, of the latter corps, came up with 
the rebels at plantation Wittenburg, and, after a short engagement^ 
compelled them to retire, having killed and wounded several, with- 
out any loss on the part of the troops. Mr Van Waterschoodt, 
of plantation Plaisance, accidentally exposed, at this time, to a 
cross fire on the road, received a wound in the leg. A detachment 
of the 21st, under the command of Lieutenant Peddie, continued 
to push forward, skirmishing occasionally and successfully, and 
forcing the negroes to retire. 

On Tuesday morning, a large body of the revolters (between 
seven and eight hundred) assembled near Mr. Reed's, at plantation 
Dochfour, well armed, &c. They commenced an attack upon 
Lieutenant Brady, of the 21st, who had marched early in the morn- 
ing, with a small party of that corps under his command,, from the 
Post at Mahaica, to endeavour, if possible, to arrest their progress; 
they attempted to surround him, but this gallant Officer effected 
his retreat to the Post in most excellent order, killing and wounding 
from ten to fifteen, without any loss whatever on his side. 

On Wednesday morning, the rebels being still in the vicinity of 
the Post, and at the bridge of plantation Beehive, Lieutenant! 
Brady continued to attack them, and on his march threw in a small 
detachment to clear some bush he had occa: ion to pass, where the 
rebels had posted a party well armed to impede bis advance. This 
service was successfully performed, six being killed on the spot; 
the troops possessing themselves of their arms and ammunition, and 
the main body retreating with great precipitation. On the same 
morning, a detachment of the Georgetown Brigade of Militia, con- 
sisting of the Rifle company and others, under the command of 
Captain Croal, succeeded in coming up with, and engaging in a very 
gallant manner, a strong party of the rebels at plantation^-Elizabeth 
Hall. They were compelled to retreat immediately, w;th the loss 
cf about forty killed, and many wounded. At three o*clock in the 
afternoon, Captain Simpson, who had been from the commence- 
ment of the revolt very actively and usefully employed, with his 
Troop of Cavalry, in scouring and reconnoitring the different estates 
in the neighbourhood, capturing prisoners, and releasing the whites 
from the Btocks, &c. repeatedly charged the enemy in a very sol- 
dier-like manner, and arrived in Georgetown at noon, escorting 
the prisoners be had taken. Too much praise cannot be given to 



53 

this Officer, to Lieutenant Forrester, and the men composing the 
Troop, for their zeal and activity on this service. 

A strong detachment, composed of the 21st Fusileers, and the 
Georgetown Brigade of Militia, under the command of Lieutenant- 
Colonel Leahy, of the 21st, having proceeded up the Coast on 
Tuesday evening, arrived at Chateau Margo about nine o'clock. 
Leaving a few of the 21st and some Militia at that place, the 
Lieutenant-Colonel pushed forward with the remainder of his 
detachment, (strengthened by the Rifle Company, under the com- 
mand of Captain Croal. and a detachment of the 1st West India,, 
who had joined him on the march,) upon Lusignan, where the 
rebels were reported to be assembled in considerable force* In 
releasing the whites upon plantation Good Hone, a few shots were 
exchanged, some arms taken, and five or six killed. The party 
proceeded, liberating the white people on the different estates, as 
they advanced,— leaving small parties at each to maintain the com- 
munication, — and arrived, about three o'clock on the morning of 
Wednesday, at plantation Bachelor's Adventure, which was found 
to. be the rendezvous of the disaffected, in number considerably 
above 1500. 

The daring conduct of these negroes, on the arrival of the de- 
tachment, in assailing the very sentries with cutlasses, was punished 
by shooting seven or eight on the spot. The detachment continued 
under arms, and as day-light began to break, the fronts of two 
considerable bodies were discovered on the bridges to the right and 
left of the detachment, amounting to about 1000 each, ail armed, 
mostly with cutlasses and bayonets fixed upon poles; they did not 
appear to have more than one hundred stand of arms, and some 
pistols. The Lieutenant-Colonel having in vain attempted to con- 
vince these deluded people of their error, and every attempt to 
induce them to lay down their arms having failed, he made his 
dispositions, charged the two bodies simultaneously, and dispersed 
them with the loss of from 1U) to 150. On our side, we had only 
one Rifleman slightly wounded. The prompt and decisive measures 
of Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy, and tl * patient and enduring conduct 
of the 21st and the Militia under his command, are entitled to the 
highest praise, and cannot be too highly appreciated. 

The detachment resumed its inarch for Mahaica, and arrived 
late in the afternoon of Wednesday, visiting all the estates on the 
road, and liberating the white people who had been confined in 
the stocks. 

The sudden check which the rebels have experienced at all 
points, has had the best effect ; their movements are undecided, — 
their spirits are shaken, — and a returning sense of duty is manifest- 
ing itself. 

The good and praise-worthy disposition evinced by all the in- 
habitants, and their zeal in embodying for the purpose of making 
their services available in the most effectual manner, has rendered 
the force under Lieutenant-Colonel^ Goodman, with the Marine 



54 

Battalion under Captain Muddle, of the Royal Navy, perfectly com- 
petent to the protection of the Town against any attack which can 
be made against it. The Commander-in-Chief is infinitely indebted 
to both these Officers, for thejr zeal and exertions on this occasion, 
end for their prompt attention to his commands. 

Every thing bears the appearance of approaching tranquillity; a 
steady perseverance in good conduct, and a strict attention to the 
orders which may be issued, will effectually ensure it. 

P. S. — Since the above went to press, the Commander-in-Chief 
has received information that the greater part of the insurgents 
g the Coast have laid down their arms, and tendered their 
submission to Robert Edmonstone, Esq Acting Aid-de-Camp to 
Lieutenant-Colonel Goodman, who was deputed to communicate 
with them; and as the negroes of Success and Le Resouvenir are 
included in the number, His Excellency is sanguine in the hopes 
that this submission will prove final. 

In the above communication, the conduct of the 
detachment of the 1st West India Regiment, under 
Captain Stewart, of that corps, was omitted to be men- 
tioned. The following handsome acknowledgment of 
their behaviour, was afterwards made public, by au- 
thority: — 

" This detachment was extremely active in the affair at planta- 
tion Bachelor's Adventure, and whe ever else they were employed, 
from the commencement of the revolt. They were amongst the 
first of the troops who were ordered to take the field, on the night 
of the insurrection; and never did men behave better, or march 
more cheerfully, throughout. 

" A part of this company, (thirty bayonets,) under Captain Stew- 
art, remain stationary at plantation Lusignan." 

In consequence of the disposition alluded to in the 
above, as having manifested itself among the insurgents 
to return to their duty, His Excellency was pleased to 
issue the following offer of pardon: — 



55 



By His Excellency Major-General JOHN MURRAY, Lieutenant- 
v. Governor and Commander-m-Chief m and 



JOHN MURRAY. Essequebo, &c. &c. &c. 

Whereas a disposition is stated to have manifested itself among" 
some of the Slaves now assembled in Arms on the East Coast of 
this Colony, to return to their Duty and Allegiance; and it having 
been reported to me, that many faithful and well-disposed Slaves 
have been forced by the more evil-minded among them to join their 
Revolt, and are still continued among them, either by force, or by 
apprehension of the consequences of their having appeared in Arms 
— I have thought fit to issue this my Proclamation, hereby offer- 
ing a FULL and FREE PARDON to all Slaves, (provided they 
shall not have been Ringleaders, or guilty of Aggravated Excesses,) 
who, throwing themselves upon my Clemency, shall, within forty- 
eight hours after the promulgation of this my Proclamation, 
deliver themselves up to any Burgher- Captain or Officers command- 
ing Detachments or Parties of Troops, giving up their Arms, Ac- 
coutrements, and Ammunition, as Pledges of their Sincerity. 

And I do hereby order and enjoin all Slaves at present in Re- 
bellion, to lay down their arms, and return to their labour,— when 
such Mercy as their compliance may justify, will be extended to 
them. In default of which, and after the expiration of forty eight 
hours, as aforesaid, all such as shall be found in arms, must be 
dealt with as Rebels, and can place little hope in mercy. 

Given under my Hand and Seal of Office, at the King's House in 
Georgetown, this 22d day of August,. 1825, and in the Fourth 
Year of His Majesty's Reign. 



By Command of His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, 




over the United Colony of Demerara and 



©05 Sa&e t&e SU'tig* 



JOHN MURRAY, Gov, Sse, 



56 



Coi ie8 of tin's proclamation were forwarded to all 
parte of the Colony, particularly to the disturbed dis- 
tricl s. The crowd of negroes which had been formerly 
referred to, as having dispersed in the direction of the 
buildings of Lc Resouvenir and Success, and there 
having h >isted a white flag as a sign of submission, 
^ err now induced to lay down their arms to the de- 
tacKment under the command of Captain M'Turk* 
The three ringleaders, however, called Toby, Jim, and 
I fill, #ere made prisoners, and, after a trial by a sum- 
mary Court- Martial, were executed on the following 
Tuesday at Beterverwagting, in presence of the gangs 
of the 'neighbouring plantations. The detachment, 
on {his occasion, took away fifteen stand of arms, ten 
cannisters of gun-powder, a hundred loose balls, and 
severs] hall-cartridges. 

We return now to the movements of the Tlifie Corps, 
whom we left doing duty at plantation Ccksingen, in 
Aeir march to town, on the night of the 22d. 

At dav-break of the following morning, they resumed 
♦heir march, and, after some time, they observed a; 
number of negroes approaching them, and who, upon 
being bailed by the advance, stated that they had 
brought Telemachus, — who being delivered up, the 
Colonel immediately gave orders for the relief of the 
hosuige formerly mentioned, and directed him to re- 
t iiti home. The rest of the prisoners were then 
marched, under an escort of the Rifle Corps, to town. 
On arriving at Lusignan, they halted for a short time; 
and, while passing New Hope, observed a detachment 
of Militia * drawn up, near the buildings of that plan- 



• Serjeant Ilcthrington, of one of tlie coloured companies in 
the 1st Battalion Demerara Militia, was ordered by his Captain, 
while at Chateau Margo, to occupy Good Hope, taking with him 
fm men. This young man conducted himself with much spirit, 
On hi, arrival, he made the negroes deliver up eight muskets; and 
en Saturday, the 23d, he went in amidst four hundred negroes, 
many of whom were armed, with Mr. Lowrie, the manager, who 
pointed out to him two of the principal ringleaders, whom he 
(Sergeant Hcthrington] instantly laid hold of, and secured. One 
oi them was iiurry.— [See page 01. J 



Do- 



tation. They proceeded on, and, after halting for 
refreshment at plantation Plaisance, the march was 
continued until they reached town, where they arrived 
at six o'clock in the evening; and, having given the 
prisoners over to the main guard, they were dismissed, 
with orders to hold themselves in readiness again to 
inarch up the Coast, the following day. 

On the afternoon of this day, Captain Crichton, of 
the Provisional Battalion, was despatched with two 
subalterns, and fifty men, to take up a position on 
plantation Industry*, — aback of the River estates,— 
to intercept any negroes from the Coast, who might 
pass down the back-dams, and come into town by Canal 
No. 3. It was afterwards found expedient to augment 
this detachment to three subalterns, and ninety men, 
as the line of communication extended across the 
country for nearly three miles, and they required de- 
tachments, each under a subaltern, to be kept open. 
The duty done by this detachment, under that active 
Officer, Captain Crichton, was extremely severe, as a 
constant succession of picquets from each post was in- 
dispensable, to prevent any one passing between the 
posts. They were also frequently occupied in scouring 
the bush-land in front, until several negroes were taken* 
who had been many years absent from their estates 
It was not until^ every thing was considered secure up 
the Coast, that this detachment was recalled, after 
performing as severe duty, as any equal number of men 
could possibly do. 

On Sunday the 24th ? the Rifle Corps, according to 
order, left town, accompanied by Colonel Leahy, and 
slept that night at Plaisance. The following day, about 
one o'clock, p. m., they proceeded to the Success^ and, 
on approaching the negro-houses, they were ordered 



* This estate was formerly in cotton, but of late years the front 
lands were abandoned, and it was turned into a sugar plantation. 
The buildings are considerably aback, [see E in the map], and th* 
produce was conveyed to town by the Canal No. 3* The shipping- 
house, close by the Canal, was occupied by a picquet [Q]£ and the 
line of picquets [represented by square dots] extended from that 
point, to the north side-line of plantation La Penitence. 



53 



to unround them: the gang was then called up, and 
( olonel Leahy selected out two as ringleaders. The 
baggage, in the mean time, was ordered to move on 
towards the main road; shortly after, Colonel Leahy 
and Captain Croal, with part of the corps, joined it, 
the remainder having been left on the estate, with or- 
ders to remain there, until relieved by Captain Robert- 
. with a detachment of the 1st Battalion Demerara 
Militia. The main body, under Captain Croal, halted 
in front of Chateau Margo, until he should be joined 
by the party left at Success. The relief took place 
soon afterwards, and the whole detachment moved on 
to Baron Van Grovestein's, (Beterverwagting,) where 
they remained till next morning. 

On Tuesday, the 26th, about eight o'clock in the 
mornings six prisoners were brought over from Suc- 
cess; and the gang of Beterverwagting having been 
allied up, the prisoners * were separately brought out 
before them, and, after due examination into the proofs 
of their guilt, they were then shot. The detachment 
then received orders to march farther up the Coast 
with the remaining prisoners, and arrived at plantation 
Lusignan, where a detachment of the 1st West India 
was at that time stationed. Here five more prisoners 
underwent the same fatef. They then pushed on, 
and arrived at Nabaclis about three o'clock, p. m. 
Next moiuiiiig, the rebels Caleb and Sloane, one for 
die murder of the overseeer on that estate, and the 
other for mal- treatment of Mrs. Walrond, were brought 
out for execution; having been shot, they were decap- 
itated by Joseph, the chief driver of the plantation, and 
their heads affixed to poles in front of the estate, as 
point* a out in the map. The negro Joseph was then 
zee!, as being one of those who had dragged his 
master [Mr. Walrond] to the stocks, — an active ring- 
leader in the revolt; he was then put into a secure 
place of confinement, with several other prisoners, who 



* Leon, Sylla, William, Toby, Jim, and Hill, 
f Amount whom was the noted ringleader Joseph, of Bachelor's 
Adventure, ami Damis, bead-driver of Orange Nassau-. 



59 



had been brought to this estate by a party of the 2 1st, 
from Mahaica Post. The following day? Wednesday, 
about noon, the bugle sounded to fall in, and a party 
of the corps under the command of Lieutenant Rainey, 
were ordered to proceed with the prisoners to town. 
On the escort arriving at the tea-house* in front of 
plantation Bel -Air, about six o'clock in the evening, 
one of the prisoners, named Prince, succeeded in 
getting his hands loose from the cord which had bound 
them, and dashed off into a neighbouring field, in 
order to make his escape, which he had nearly ac- 
complished; but a shot brought him down, mortally 
wounded. The party then proceeded on to town, and 
delivered the prisoners over to the main guard. 

The main body of the Rifle Corps, which we left at 
Nabaclis, extended themselves along the bacl^of the 
negro-houses, — where Colonel Leahy, accompanied by 
Lieutenant Kernan, and Assistant-Commissary Edie, 
searched the buildings for arms and ammunition. In 
this they partially succeeded; and parties of the Corps 
were afterwards sent through the cotton-fields, for a 
similar purpose. On the following day, Thursday, the 
28th, they were employed on the same duty at the 
neighbouring estates; and on Friday, several prisoners 
were brought over, by a detachment of the 21st Fusi- 
leers, under Captain Sutherland. On Saturday, the 
30th, the Corps received orders to march them to 
Beterverwagting, where they arrived at seven o'clock 
in the evening f. On the afternoon of the following 
day, Sunday, the 31st, they proceeded to plantation 
Chateau Margo, where they joined the different troops 
under Captain Daniels; they then moved on to town, 
and delivered over the prisoners to the Colonial Jail. 



* A sraall villa so Called, situated close to the sea-side, near to 
the public road, and fronting the middle-path of plantation Bel-Air. 

f The Rifle Corps was relieved at Nabaclis, by the detachment 
under Captain Sutherland, who brought the prisoners, amongst 
whom was Jimmy, who shot the bugler of the 21st, at Bachelor's 
Adventure. The detachment which had been marched off to town, 
on the 28th 3 with prisoners, returned on the following day to 
Plaisance. 



60 

It now being desirable that the prisoners who had 
been brought to town, and placed under confinement, 
should be put upon their trial without delay,— His 
Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor was pleased to 
issue his warrant, in the name of His Majesty, for 
assembling and constituting a General Court-Martial, 
On Monday, 25th August, the same was opened % 
with due solemnity, and the following Officers and 
Gentlemen were sworn in : — 

STEPHEN ARTHUR GOODMAN, Esq. 

Lieutenant- Colonel in the Army, and Commander of the Georgetown Militia. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Wray f , A. D. C. to the Com. -in-Chief. 
Major H. Tulloh, Demerara Militia. 
Major Thomas Franxland, Provisional Battalion. 
Captain Killikelly, D. A. Q. M. G. 

Fareweather, H. M. 2lst R. N. B. Fusileers. 
Gapper, Half-pay Royal Artillery. 
Albuoy, Demerara Artillery. 
C. Playter, Demerara Militia, 
G. Lawson, 
Mackenzie, 
W. Lyng, 
1st Lieut. J. B. Ferguson, 
Judge-Advocate', V. A. Heyliger, Esq. First Fiscal. 
Assistant, Richard Creser, 21st R. N. B. Fusileers. 
C. Wilday, Esq. Colonial Secretary. 

The President hating stated, that on account of the 
witnesses not having arrived, the Court were under the 
nec< ssity of adjourning until the following day. 

On Tliesday, the 26th, the negroes' Natty, alias 
Natt, belonging to plantation Enterprise, and Louis, 
lx Longing to plantation Plaisance, were tried and found 
guilty, on the following charge: — 

* At the Colony-House, 
t President of the Court of Justice. 



61 



¥or having, on or about the night of Monday, the 18th of August, 
been in open Revolt and Rebellion, and actively engaged therein, 
against the Peace of Our Sovereign Lord the King, and the Laws 
in force in these Colonies— and also for aiding and assisting others 
in such Rebellion*. 

Being convicted on the clearest evidence, they were 
sentenced to suffer death the same evening. In order 
to carry the sentence of the law into effect with all pos- 
sible solemnity, the 1st Battaiion of the Georgetown 
Militia having assembled at the Colonial Armoury f, 
the following order of procession was formed, in order 
to conduct the prisoners to the place of execution, on 
the Parade-Ground* CumingsburgJ, where a gallows 
had been erected: — 

Advanced Guard. 
Negroes bearing the Coffins. 

Guard. The Prisoners. Guard. 

The Garrison Chaplain. 
The Band, &c. of the 1st Battaiion Demerara Militia. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Goodman, attended by numerous Field- Officers. 
Captain Albuoy, and Detachment of the Militia Artillery. 
Major Tulloh, and 1st Battalion Demerara Militia. 
Major Frankland, and Provisional Battalion. 
Staff-Officers, &c. &c. &c. 



* Robert Edmonstone, Esq. who acted as Aid-de-Camp to Col- 
onel Goodman, was sworn as an Interpreter, to explain to the 
Prisoner, in the negro dialect, the nature of the Charge, — the Evi- 
dence,— to ask any Questions, by way of cross-examination, — and 
to assist the Prisoner with his Defence. Mr. Edmonstone also in- 
terpreted the testimony given by negroes. Throughout the whole 
of the trials, an Interpreter was engaged. 

The Charge was explained to the Prisoner by Mr. Edmonstone; 
and, as the Plea of — Guilty, or not Guilty — did not seem intelligible 
to the Prisoner, he was asked by the Interpreter, " You do so? — 
or you no do so?" — The answer was, " No; me no been do 'em," 
Whereupon the Plea of— Not Guilty — was recorded. In many 
eases, the Prisoners said at once — " Not Guilty." 

f Or Guard-House, represented in Plate 5. 

J In Plate 13, is a Plan of Georgetown. The following refer- 
ences, will explain the situation of various places alluded to in the 
Jsarrative : — 

Georgetown, situated at the mouth of the Demerara River, oc- 
cupies the front lands of five plantations, viz. — The Thomas, 7. 7. 
comprising the districts of Kingston and Cumingsburg. — Vlissingen, 
6. — The old town of Stabroek, 5.— Werk en Rust, 4.— and Charles- 
town, ftovA of plantation Le Rcpentir, 3, 



62 

e procession moved off about five o'clock, at a 
slow nexe*, the band playing a dead march, which 
produced an awful and impressive effect. At the place 
of execution, they behaved with decorum, and acknow- 
: dged the justice of their sentence f. A single gun 
announced their having been launched into eternity. 
A great many other negroes were also tried by the 
abpvf! Court-Martial, day after day, on the same charge; 
and some of them also, for causing, exciting, and pro- 
moting, such revolt or rebellion, by acting as a leader, 
chief, or head man. 

We annex a note of the names of those condemned, 
and their execution, in the order of their dates %. 



A. The Fort. 

R. Camp-House, residence of 
•the Governor. 

C. Cuming's Canal. 

D. Ordnance Store-Keeper's. 

E. Light-House. 

F- Military Hospital. 

G. Military Barracks. 

H. Military Burying-Grouncl. 

I. Engineers' Quarters. 
O. The Presidency. 

J. The Parade-Grouitd. 
X. New Market. 
J j. St. George's Church. 
IC. Masons' Lodge. 
V. Old Parade-G round, 
o. Colony-House. 
R. Scots' Church. 
S. The Market-Place. 



T. 
V. 

q- 

z. 



The Court of Justice. 
The Guard-House. 
The Colonial Jail. 
The Parsonage. 
The Manse. 
. Burying-Ground. 
PP. The Panorama, 
a. The Buck Logie, a large 
building, for the accommodation 
of the Indians who may come to 
town. 

h. Dwelling-House of Planta- 
tion Kitty. 

g. Buildings of Plan. Vlessin- 

gen. 

* Government-House. 
** Old Colony Jail. 
LL. The Ferry. 
9. Small Burving-Cround. 



• As the procession passed up the great street of Cumingsburg, 
the whole of the Marine Battalion, (at their station,) under Captain 
; Idle, R. X. turned out, and remained with presented arms, 
until the procession had passed. 

f See page 1 1 and 13* 
lov'i-j clav, August 27th, two more of the rebels were 
: nn€ | ^ | executed-Murphy, belonging to plantation «ouIis, 
, | Harry, of Good Hope. The principal witness against the 
. Walrond, of Xabaclis-[Sce note in page 48.] 
Vmong • ssesagau ist the latter, was the culprits manager- 

,.! ' At the place of execution, Murpny oegged 
I for his lite, and was so little resigned to his fate that the 
DU ,ioner was peremptorily ordered to do his duty, and not dela> . 
iitt< d I y his fate with resignation. 



63 



It having been ascertained that many of the rin^> 
leaders and their followers had fled into the woods 



On Thursday, the 28th, four rebels were found guilty, and escorted 
to the place of execution,, at the usual hour of five o'clock, p. in. 
They were Damas, of Plaisance, Daniel and Philip, of Foulis, and 
Evan, of Good Hope. At these executions, an unfortunate cir- 
cumstance occurred. On the falling of the drop-board, three of 
the culprits were precipitated to the ground, in consequence of the 
accidental slipping of the knot. Two of them, while on the ground, 
appeared perfectly insensible; the other raised himself on his seat* 
and rem-dned so for nearly a minute, and. then fell at full length,, 
apparently as dead. 

The following are extracts from the depositions of respectables 
witnesses, on the trials of three of the above rebels. 

" Hubert Whitlocke Sworn, 
"I know the prisoner: he belongs to Foulis; I am manager and: 
attorney of that estate. * * * About half an hour, 
or little more after, the second gang came, headed by Daniel, the 
prisoner; they came in a line; he was the first man, armed with a 
musket, a fixed bayonet, and accoutrements round him. He went 
round the house,, and some one came up the steps, seized me by 
tne coilar, and dragged' mc dev/r- esd said, 4 We have him,' — afr 
which time Daniel came back again. I was then dragged by one, 
pushed by another, and taken by the whole to the stocks; the 
sick-house was open^ and all the sick negroes, and those in the 
stocks, released. Daniel was the man who opened the stocks for 
me. I called to him, and said, Daniel, is this you?— He said, ' Yes, 
it's my turn now.' He put in one foot, and I begged him not to 
put in both; he said, he could not allow it, he must put in both; 
he then shut the stocks, and locked it himself. The windows were 
shut, the doors were locked, and I heard Daniel give orders to 
leave three estate negroes, and two strange negroes, to guard me." 

" Cross examined, by the prisoner. 
" Did you ever find fault with me, in the situation I held under 
you on the estate? — You have the character of the greatest rascaL 
on the estate; I always considered you the most dangerous man cn 
the estate; you were a good workman." 

Evidence of a witness on the trial of Philip. 

tl Duncan M'Arthqr Sworn. 

" I know the prisoner; he belongs to plantation Foulis; his name- 
is Philip. I lived at Foulis, when the prisoner was there. I was 
put into the stocks on Tuesday morning; Philip took hold of me 
when I was seized, as I stated in the last trial; he held a cutlas-; 
he. took me out of the porch, holding me by the right collar,, aad 



64 



aback of the estates, [among whom were the noted 
] iaders, Quamina and his son Jack], a bush expedition 
was therefore got ready, with all possible despatch. 



said I was the man he wanted. I was almost instantly rescued by 
Paradise negroes; after that, the lights were put out, and I was 
taken to the stocks, by whom I don't know. Prisoner held me 
violently, and dragged me; he had a cutlass in his other hand." 

The following is an extract from the evidence adduced on the 
trial of Evan. 

" William Brown Sworn. 
<c I am overseer on plantation Good Hope. * * * The pri- 
soner came up the steps, armed with a cutlass; I told him to go 
down; he would not go* * * * I asked him if he had a good 
heart to assist me; he said he had. A strange negro of Foulis, with 
a stick and a cutlass at the end of it, was going to run it into me; 
I turned round to ward it off, when prisoner came behind vie, and 
zhoved vie down the steps of the gallery, amongst all the negroes; 
there are twelve or thirteen steps; he shoved me in such a manner, 
that I did not touch a single step, from the top to the bottom, but 
my shoulder struck against the top of one of the lower posts. Pri- 
soner is a powerful, tall man. I lighted at the bottom, on mv hands 
and feet. A great many negroes came over, and said, c Kill hum' 
Some said 4 No, put him in the stocks;'— they carried me to the 
stocks." 

On Saturday, the 6th of September, six more of the rebels were 
led to execution. The Rifle Corps, and great part of the Cavalry, 
then doing duty in town, joined the procession; as likewise a large 
body of Indians, under W. Hillhouse, Esq. who commanded these 
people in the capacity of Commissary-General. The military force 
Which attended the execution, had an imposing effect. The names 
of the culprits who suffered, were— Ellick, of Coldingen, Attilla, of 
Plaisance, France, of Porter's Hope, Billey, of Ann's Grove, Harry, 
of Triumph, and Quintus, of Beterverwagting. They appeared 
seemingly penitent. 

From some of the trials of the above rebels, the following are 
extracts: — 

" Ned Sworn. 

* * * " I am Mr. Spencer's f groom. I was in Mr. Spencer's 



\ Cresswcll Spencer, Esq. manager and attorney of plantation 
Atlnaildale, and Burgher Captain. This gentleman had a narrow 
escape from ti>e insurgents. He was in town on Monday, the 18th 
August, where hi first heard of the intended rising; he immediately 
returned to his residence at the above plantation, and had arrived 
but I short time, when he was alarmed by the blowing of shells on 



65 



A detachment of Militia under the command of 
Lieutenants Nurse and Davison, had been sent from 



yard, and heard the shell of the Friendship blown. Mr. Spencer 
sent Prirao to know what the shell was blowing for; when Primo 
returned, he informed Mr. Spencer, that the negro men were all 
risen, armed with cutlasses. Mr. Spencer desired the drivers to 
call up some of the men, to assist in preserving the property. I 
was guarding the counting-house door, when I saw Ellick, who 
said, ' Here is one of Mr. Spencer's servants, he must know where 
he is;' then they began to beat me, and some of them said I ought 
to be shot. I did not tell them where Mr. Spencer was. # # * 
Ellick had a cutlass." 

The desperate conduct of Attilla in the revolt, was testified by 
several witnesses. He sawed through a partition, to get at the 
manager of the Better Hope; had the head-driver tied; and carried 
off by force the manager and others to the stocks. — [See page 11.] 
The following is the evidence of Bob, driver of plantation Brothers, 
a remarkably fine, intelligent negro. When the oath was about to - 
be administered, Bob stated he was a Mahometan, and that his form 
of oath was swearing by the Koran, by holding up his hand, and 
kissing the book at the same time. Colonel Wray stated to the 
Court, that this form of oath was sufficient; and that on a trial at 
the Old Bailey for murder, a Chinese was sworn by breaking a 
saucer. The examination then proceeded. — " I know the prisoner; 
he belongs to Piaisance. At plantation Brothers, on Monday, the 
18th, about five o'clock, the manager came and called rae. About 
seven o'clock at night, the prisoner Attilla, with a great many ne- 
groes, made their appearance. I went out to meet theai, and 
asked what row that was coming on the estate? Attilla asked me, 
' Are you the manager? — if you are, you must take what the mana- 
ger is going to get.' They then laid hold of me. # * # They 
then dragged me from the negro-house to the dwelling-house. 
When we reached there, I jumped upon the steps, to defend the 



the Friendship, an adjoining plantation to windward. Crowds of 
armed negroes were seen making their way towards the dwelling- 
house, under which Mr. Spencer passed, for the purpose of avoiding 
the rebels. Two muskets were fired at him, but he escaped into 
the cotton-pieces, about 100 rod? from the house, where he re- 
mained for the night. While in this deplorable situation, he heard 
the negroes distinctly talking of him, expressing disappointment at 
not having secured his person; and heard several say, that they 
wanted the Burgher Captain's head. At break of day, he escaped 
from the cotton-pieces to the front cotton field, and at night to 
town, by the sea. Mr. Spencer has been a resident in the Colony 
for many years, as a planter, and was always remarkable for his 
humanity, and good treatment of negroes 



town, and quartered at Tost Felicity, under Captain 
M'Turk, who had received orders from the Com- 



-,\ bites. A hoy named Sultan laid hold of me, dragged me, and 
gave me a blow over the eye; and I heard Attilla give orders to 
cut my head off; and then Darius, belonging to Le Resouvenir, 
gave orders to cut off one of my hands." 

" Captain Louis Charles Appelius, 21st N. B. F. Sworn. 

" I know the prisoner [Billy, of Ann's Grove]. Kis own son gave 
information to me against him, on the 21 it of Angus', at Clonbrook ; 
he was then concealed in a hut, and I made him come out; and; 

king for his arms, he said he had concealed them in an ad- 
joining field; that if I would permit him, he would go and fetch 
them, as he was tired of the business. Not knowing him to be one 

the principal ringleaders, I allowed him to do so; his son brought 
ID ore stand of arms, but the prisoner absconded, and ran off. 
From information I then received,, I sent out parties after him ; and, 
so late as the 27th, in making his escape from two parties of the 
21st, who .. ere endeavouring to surround him, he fell into the hands 
of some negroes, who had been sent from Clonbrook after him. 
When perceived by our puen, he was armed with a gun; but when 
taki n 3 he had only a s>hre. He acknowledged to me, that he had 
been with the party engaged with Lieutenant Brady, on the 19th 
and 20th." 

Harry, of the Triumph, was the principal leader of the gang that 
attacked the house of the manager on plantation Mon Repos — [See 
page 9.] — He was the first that fired into the house. 

On taking down the bodies of these six rebel*, they were decap- 
itated, fcnd their heads affixed to poles, and put up within the fort. _ 
The head of Attilla was taken to plantation Plaisance, and there 
placed on a pole by the road-side. 

On Friday, the 12th of September, nine rebels were led to exe- 
cution, viz.— Telemachus and Scipio, of Bachelor's Adventure, 
Lindor and Picket, of La Bonne Intention, Beffaney, of Success, 
Tom, of Chateau Margo, Paul, of Friendship, and Quamina, of 
Noot en Zuvl. They were accompanied in the procession by nearly 
of their associates in rebellion, who were marched under a 
^trong guard, to witness the execution,— it being thought, that such 
an example might produce salutary effects. It was some time after 

• iet before the signal-gun announced their exit from this life, 
rope which suspended Telemachus unfortunately gave way, and 
he fell to the ground, apparently dead; he was immediately drawn 
up. Telemachus was a noted ringleader. The following evidence 
is extracted from his trial: — 

" HUBERT Whitlocke Examined by the Judge- Advocate. 
M On the trial of Daniel, I stated to the Court the manner in which 
put into tiie stocks. It was on the morning of Tuesday, the 



67 



mander-in-Chief to prevent the negroes (who had as- 
sembled in great numbers behind the Success, and 



19th, I was told by a negro man Gilbert, who came to me in the 
stocks, armed with a double-barrelled gun, that I should be released, 
as Teiemachus, the captain, was coming; Gilbert belongs to Para- 
dise. He did come, while Gilbert was at the stocks, almost imme- 
diately, and inquired of me if the guard had taken proper care of 
me, while I had been there; I said yes, and begged to be released; 
he ordered me to be released, and accompanied me to the house. 
He had, I dare say, one hundred and fifty with him; just then, he 
appeared to be at the head. I went into the house, and he gave 
me two papers to sign; I did not read either one of them.— [Papers 
produced, and identified.] —The papers produced, are the papers I 
signed. I do not believe he had any arms; his followers had; they 
were armed different ways ; some guns, some pistols, and some 
bayonets; hardly an individual, beside himself, but what had some- 
thing. He staid and regaled himself with porter and wine, &c, and 
went away; the others that did not drink, he invited; he appeared 
to have his favourites. I signed the papers for fear of danger to 
my person, and thought they would kill me, if I refused. " 

At the termination of his defence^ Teiemachus threw himself on 
his knees, and begged for mercy. 

Jemmy was fully convicted on the ordinary charge, and also for 
the murder of the bugler of the 21st N. B. F. — [See page 36.] — The 
following is an extract from his trial: — 

"James Carson Sworn* 

" I am overseer on plantation Hope. I have seen the prisoner 
at different times, and have always considered him to belong to 
Bachelor's Adventure. * * * About half-past two in the 
morning of the 18th August, I saw the prisoner, in company with 
a number of other negroes, at the manager's house of plantation 
Hope. He collared me, and said I must go io the stocks. There 
was no candle light, but moon light. * * * I resisted, and he 
struck me on my body with his fist; he then shoved me over the 
steps. J did not want to go to the stocks; he then knocked off 
my hat, and struck me again." * * * 

The conduct of Lindor and Pickel, of La Bonne Intention, is 
exemplified by the following slight extracts from their trials: — 

"Nicholas Gerard Toolan Sworv. 
" I am manager of plantation La Bonne Intention. On Monday, 
the 18th of August last, about six o'clock in the evening, I was in 
the dwelling-house. * * * I heard the prisoner Lindor give orders 
to set fire to it; I spoke to him not to do so, but there was no* 
help; he gave me no answer, but kept crying out, 'Put fire, put 
fire/ I saw him at the time ; I spoke to him at the time he was 



68 

ftdjoinirtg plantations) from getting down on the river 
estates* 



so calling oat; he belongs to our estate; he was not more than 
eight) paces from me at the time; I could see him clearly, as I see 
hiuj now.* 1 

<: Donald Reid Sworn. 

" I am overseer on La Bonne Intention ; P^ckel is a field-negro, 

They conveyed me to the stocks; Profit was on my right 

hand, and David was behind me. On passing the manager's house, 
the | risoner Pickel took his cutlass flatways, and struck me twice 
over the nose; it hied the whole night, while I was in the stocks. 
He was g ing to give me a third blow, when some of our negroes 
shoved him off." 

Befianey was principally concerned in the release of Jack Glad- 
stone from the custody of the overseer of Success, [Malcolm Mur- 
cheson], while conveying Jack prisoner to the Burgher Captain, 
Dr. M'Turk. Beffaney struck the overseer with his cutlass, and 
with violence rescued Jack, who immediately went to the release 
of his father, Quamina, at that time in custody of another overseer, 
who was conveying his prisoner also to the Bnrgher Captain, by 
order of his manager.— [See page 4.] The following is an extract 
from the evidence of the manager of Chateau Margo, on the trial 
of Tom : — 

" George Man son Sworn. 

" The prisoner Thomas said I had got away once, and he 

would take care I should not get away a second time; he brandished 
his cutlass over me, and said he would carry me to the stocks, dead 
or alive. They then tied my hands, but I broke the rope. I was 
then dragged, rather than walked, to the stocks-door, where Mr. 
Thoimon [the overseer] was brought out, and we were tied together 
with a hank rope, for a few minutes. I was struck several times 
with small bamboo sticks, by the women gang. I was shoved along 
the house to the stocks-room, when Tom the prisoner brandished 
his cutlass; he then put his hand upon my forehead, laid the sharp 
edge of the cutlass across my throat, and said, * You have done for 
ine enough o 1 this estate, but before day-break I will do for yon.' 
As 1 was going to the stocks-room door, the woman Kit gave me 
a slap on the side of the head with her hand, and asked me what I 
thought now? — I then went into the stocks. The prisoner Tom 
hauled my two feet into the smallest holes, took his cutlass, and 
knocked it on the stocks, and told us we should sleep sound to- 

night." 

Paul of Friendship was the first negro who entered his manager's 
boose, on Monday, the 18th, collared him, and tried to wrestle a 
gun from his hands. There were at lea-t a hundred negroes about 
ir.L house; they broke the front door open with axes, and rushed 



69 



On the 29th of August, part of the above detachment, 
and a party of Indians, with whom were Captains 



in» The manager, [Christian John Schmidt], his wife, her sister, 
and his infant child, were there at the time. He told the rebels 
that he would defend his family, when he was immediately knocked 
down, by a blow on the back of the head with the butt of a gun ; 
he got up, and was knocked down a second time, and dragged to 
the stocks. 

The following is the deposition of a witness on the trial of 
Quamina, belonging to plantation Noot en Zuyl: — 

* Donald Martin Sworn, 

<{ I am a medical practitioner on the Coast. I know the prisoner; 
J first saw him on Wednesday, the 20th August, at plantation 
Elizabeth Hali; he had a cutlass; there were a great number of 
negroes along with him; at this time they were pretty quiet; it was 
after the troops had left Bachelor's Adventure. I observed the 
prisoner particularly, being amongst the crowd, telling the negroes, 
that ' since the soldiers had shot so many of them, they saw plainly 
that buckras did not want any more negroes, and they wished they 
had possession of the country themselves, and do away with the 
ne-r-2C5 dtCgCtl.oi', and kin ail tii£ it«g»de&$ bei«g liic 
best plan for them would be, to lay hold of all the whites then/ 
could catch, and murder them? I am positive this is the man, al- 
though I did not know him before; he put himself before all the 
rest, and seemed to me to be the leader of the party." 

Out of these nine rebels, four of them were hung in chains, on 
the East Coast, by the side of the public road; viz. Telemachus 
and Jimmy, on Bachelor's Adventure; Lindor, on La Bonne In- 
tention; and Paul, on plantation Friendship. Some of the others 
were decapitated, and their heads stuck up on poles within the 
Fort. 

To many of the convicted rebels, whose guilt was in any way 
palliated by favourable evidence on their trials, the awful punish- 
ment of death was remitted. On November 6th, at plantation 
Success, four were flogged as soldiers are in the British army— one 
received 500 lashes, the others 350*. There were present, under 
the command of Colonel Leahy, a detachment of the 1st West 
India, and a great part of the Militia troop of Cavalry. After the 
punishments were put in force, an officer's escort was sent - to an 
adjoining plantation, for the Governor. On His Excellency's ar- 
rival, the drivers of the gangs of the neighbouring estates, with the 



* The sentences of two rebels were read, who were not present 
on the occasion — this perhaps was accidental— they were sentenced 
to receive 1000 lashes each, one of them to be worked in chains 
for life, and the other for seven years. 



70 



Brandes anti Hillhouse, marched to the back-dam of 
| [aiitation Lusignan, and proceeded from thence, at 



>verseers 3 and the whole of the gang of plantation Success, formed 
: : ; ;l circle, in the centre of which His Excellency amply ad- 
dressed them, in a very appropriate and admonitory manner, to 
which they listened with attention. 

On November 7th, at plantation Triumph, three more of the 
rebels underwent a similar punishment; after which, an officer's 
i was sent to escort His Excellency the Governor from Cha- 
teau Margo, — when, on his arrival, the gang of the plantation, and 
part of others in the neighbourhood, were admonished and instructed 
by another appropriate address. On the following morning, at 
Nabaelis, two rebels were flogged, and the negroes admonished as 
on the two former occasions. 

Many of the insurgents were still under sentence of death, and" 
many remained yet untried; and it was not until the following 
year, [1824], on the 9th of January, that the melancholy spectacle 
of another execution was witnessed on the Parade-Ground. At. 
6 ; .x o'clock, p. m., four principal ringleaders were there executed, — 
being Paris, of Good Hope,, Hamilton and Richard, of Success, and 
Achilles, of Beterverwagting*. They appeared penitent. 

i'aris was a v>'c:i«propcr:icncd negro, of gigantic aim. The &LL 
lowing evidence is extracted from his trial, which took place Oc- 
tober 7th, 1823.— 

"John Lowrie Sworn. 
" On the night of the 18th, I desired the prisoner, who is boat- 
captain, to come into my house. I told him to go and get a cutlass, 
and assist the whites in defending his master's property; he did so, 
and came back to us with a cutlass. I ordered him to cut down 
the first negro who should come on the stairs. The negroes came 
up, and he fell back; he did not strike them, or prevent them run- 
ning The negroes came into the house, and got possession of the 
hall. I was alone in the gallery, surrounded by negroes, and spoke 
to Paris; I think I said, do they intend to murder me? and he said, 
it due, not look so. I then told the negroes, if they would go out 
of the house, I would give the musket to the prisoner. I said this, 
b cause the prisoner had always behaved very well on the estate;. 
' had no fault to find with him; he is a very sensible man. The 
musket was >e*zed, but not by the prisoner. I was going to speak 
to ... , when 1 was seized and dragged down stairs, ami put into 
th stocks. The prisoner came to the sick-house, whilst I was in 
• 1 think he said, have you got a sheet and pillow? 
j 3 were both brought some time afterwards, but by whom I 
Cannol Bay. I saw no more ef Paris until Wednesday morning,. 
v ; l|( il 1 him pass the end of one of the negro-houses, through 
the U j the cotton-piece, to the sije-ime; he had a mu.ket, 



71 



six o'clock on the following morning, along the trench 
extending into the bush from the above estate; and, 



but I cannot say if he had accoutrements: several of the negroes 
were with him; he went as far as Lusignan >ide-line; he remained 
there a short time, and then returned to Good Hope. I sent a 
boy, Dance, to call him to come and speak to me; the boy came 
back, and said he would not come; I saw the boy go to the house 
where Paris was. I saw no more of the prisoner until Saturday, 
the 23d. Mr. Cort, of Lusignan, came to Good Hope with the 
prisoner, and said he had surrendered himself to him; he gave him 
over to me. Toby, another negro, was along with the man. I 
asked the prisoner if he had been ill used, and what drove him to 
such desperate conduct; I think his answer was, no, he had not. 
I at the same time told Mr. Cort, in the prisoner's presence, that 
whenever be came for a bottle of wine or porter, he had never 
been refused it; but I cannot say whether prisoner made any an- 
swer, but he did not contradict it. The prisoner has occasionally 
asked me for porter, wine, shirt, and trowsers, and I always gave 
them to him. He is boiit-captain, and is considered a head man on 
the estate, and gets three allowances of provisions a-week. When 
he went to town, he got two flasks of rum in his boat." 

" Negro William, of Good Hope, Sworn. 
"I am a carpenter, and was examined on the trial of Harry. I 
saw the prisoner on Monday night, before the rising began; he told 
all the men on the estate that they must rise, as the King had sent 
out word, that all the slaves were to be free, and that no slave 
should work for a white man, unless paid like a white overseer; 
that as every estate was to rise, and put the manager in the stocks, 
the Good Hope people must do so also, and take away the arms. 
This was before they threw grass; the gang had the grass in their 
bands, and the overseer came to look at it; they then threw grass 
on the ground, and surrounded the house, but did not attack it; 
they waited for the strangers. At this time, the manager sent me 
for Paris; I heard him tell Paris to stand at the foot of the s f airs, 
and let no negroes up. The Beterverwagting people came there, 
and put the manager in the stocks; I saw the prisoner Paris go all 
over the house, to look for arms, which he distributed to the peo- 
ple, and kept one himself, with a belt, sword, and shot-box. The 
prisoner went away, and told the people they must come along 
with him up the Coast. I was carried with them to Lusignan. 
Paris said, that those who would not follow, he would kill." 

"A. G. Gainfort Sworn. 
" I am manager of Golden Grove, and was examined on the 
trial of Sandy. I saw the prisoner on Tuesday evening, the 19th 
August, as a leader amongst the negroes. He was armed with a 
musket, and had on a shot belt; he was present with Jack and 



after a march of four hours, they discovered a track, 
[at B. see Map], as if of fugitives coming from leeward, 



Sandy, wken wo signed the papers produced here before; he ap- 
p eared sulky and disappointed. The prisoner, Jack, and Sandy, all 
appeared to be leaders, and they prevented the other negroes ap- 
proaching. " 

" Mr. Grant, of Plantation Bellefield, Sworn, 
"I saw the prisoner on Tuesday, the 19th August, about four 
o'clock; he came with a great number of negroes, from Mahaica 
side, towards Bellefield. He had a gun, and was one of those who 
wanted me to sign a paper. I said I had already signed one; he 
then said to the others, * Don't trust buckra, but make him sign a 
second.' I told them it was the same I had before signed, and they 

were satisfied.".... 

The defence of Paris, on his trial, was remarkable for its length. 
He was hung in chains, on a gibbet erected close to the Fort*. 

From the evidence against Hamilton, he appeared to have shown 
no indecision of action as a rebel. On the manager of Montrose 
sending a negro [Francois] to tell him and his party to go off the 
estate, or he should fire into them, he replied, " that he might fire, 
and be d— d," — and desired the manager to deliver up his arms. 

" Mr. Murcheson Sworn. 

" I am overseer on plantation Success, and know the prisoner. 
On Monday, the 18th, at five o'clock, afternoon, I saw the prisoner 
on the side-line of Success; several negroes were with him, and he 
made several attempts to strike me with his cutlass; he was kept 
back by Jack, of Success." 

Achilles met his fate with much irresolution, and pretended that 
he had something to disclose, and talked incoherently of another 
insurrection. An express was sent off to the Governor, in conse- 
quence, which however produced no other effect, than that of 
delaying the execution for a few minutes. 

R-ichard, a notorious and desperate ringleader, had eluded for a 
long time being taken, having retired to the woods. He met hi6 
fate with firmness. His body was hung in chains on the same 
gibbet with Quamina, in front of plantation Success. 

On the following morning, January 10th, the negro Sandy, h 
principal leader in the revolt, was conveyed in a cart to plantation 
Nonpareil, attended by a detachment of the Cavalry. This insur- 
gent was convicted on the ordinary charge, and for acting as a chief 
or head man in the rebellion. He also was tried and found guilty 

* In the back-ground of the subject of Plate 10, is a view of the 
Fort. The gibbet there seen, is the one on which the body of 
Fans is suspended in chains; it was erected some time previous to 
the execution of Paris. 



7-3 



which continued along the water-path for a consider- 
able distance. The detachment then struck off to 



©f the murder of a negro. At the place of execution, he appeared 
Very penitent, spoke for a few minutes, and was going to accuse 
some one of being the cause of the revolt, but was prevented from 
-so doing by the minister who attended him; he then uttered a short 
ejaculation, threw himself off the ladder, and expired without a 
struggle. 

On Thursday, the 15th of January, the Brigade of Militia were 
under arms on the Parade-Ground, to witness the flogging of seven 
Convicted insurgents, who had been some time under sentence; 
viz. Louis, of Porter's Hope, 1000 lashes; Field, of Clonbrook, 
1000; Mercury, of Enmore, 700; Austin, of the Cove, 600; Jessa- 
min, of Success, 1000; John, belonging to F. C. Otto, 200; and 
August, of Success, 300. 

There were also flogged at the New Barracks, three of the rebels 
who had been sentenced some time previous; viz. Cobmo, Sammy, 
and Cudgo: the first to receive 1000 lashes, and to be worked in 
chains for life; the second 1000 lashes, and to be worked in chains 
for seven years ; and the third looo lashes. Cobino received the 
whole amount, Sammy 900, and Cudgo 800. 

On the 2d of February, the negro Maximilian, belonging to plan- 
tation Success, received at the Jail 300 lashes, pursuant to sentence 
of a Court-Martial, for aiding and assisting in the late revolt. 
There are yet remaining [May 15th, 1824] fifty negroes implicated 
in the revolt, who have been tried, and whose sentences probably 
await the decision of the Sovereign, — among the number of whom, 
is the noted ringleader Jack Gladstone, belonging to plantation 
Success. This man, after the defeat of the rebels at Bachelor's 
Adventure, fled into the woods, and for a considerable time eluded 
all discovery; and so great was the importance attached to his 
being taken, in consequence of its being understood that he was the 
chief of all the other leaders in the revolt, a large reward was 
offered for his apprehension. The manner of his capture is already 
related. The interest excited by this man's trial was exceedingly 
great. Many important facts were elicited on the proceedings; 
and, as his defence is very remarkable, not only for its ingenuity, 
but as carrying with it an air of truth and candour, it may not 
perhaps be altogether unprofitable here, to give an extract from his 
published trial. 

JACK'S DEFENCE. 

" About seven or eight weeks before this rebellion broke out, 
Cato mentioned to my father, in presence of Active, something 
about our freedom being come out, and that it was told by Joe, 
Mr. Simpson's boy. Cato, my father. Active, and Dumfries, then 
came to my house, and Cato told it to me in their presence; he 

H 



v> uuwaru a» v. J5 allowing the tracK unm lour o'clock 
in the afternoon, at which hour they halted for the 



also said, that Joe Simpson wished us to come to his place at 
Wittemburg, as he wanted to see two or three brothers of the 
church, and that he would put us in the way how to get at it, for 
that we were too cowardly; now that our right was all before us, 
and we would not seek for it. Edward, the little boy, wrote a 
letter, by my father's direction, to Joe Simpson, stating, that he 
would be very happy and willing to hear what he had to say. Ac- 
tive and York were the bearers of the letter, and Mars, of Van 
Cooten, went with them to Joe Simpson; they called for him on 
the way down, as he had received a similar message. We received 
an answer from Joe Simpson in writing, that we were to be freed, 
by what he had seen in his master's papers (whether he meant 
newspapers or letters, I cannot tell); that Mr. Wilberforce was 
doing his best for us; and that if we would wait a little, a new 
Governor was expected very soon ; and, if he came, and would not 
give us what is allowed to us, that we must all apply to him, and 
that he would inform us of the regular way of getting it. The 
first message from Joe Simpson was about seven weeks before the 
rebellion; and the letter from Joe was read by the side of the 
chapel, at plantation Le Resouvenir, the Sunday of the 17th Au- 
gust. In the mean time, I had been inquiring amongst other friends; 
and in about two weeks after I had received the first message, I 
went to Daniel, the Governor's servant; he is a church brother of 
the Methodist persuasion. I inquired of Daniel if he had heard 
of our freedom being come out— and told him he must inquire and 
seek after it, and let me know whether it was true or not, which 
he promised to do. He said he had heard a little of it; if it was a 
thing God ordained for us, it will be; but it is a good thing to have 
a little patience. York also, of Success, declared, that the overseer 
of New Orange Nassau had stated, that we were free; that all the 
great men at home had agreed to it, except our masters. Provi« 
dence, of New Orange Nassau, confirmed w hat York said, and that 
it was told him by the overseer. I called upon Tully, Mr. Hynd- 
man's servant, the same day I saw Daniel, the Governor's servant. 
About a week before I saw Daniel, Susannah, Mr. Hamilton's 
house-keeper, spoke to me outside Bethel Chapel ; it was in the 
morning of a Sunday, about nine o'clock; and told me, that Mr. 
Hamilton had declared we were to be free; but he did not think it 
would be given to us, unless all the sensible people went by force 
about it, and would not give it up, without a positive promise from 
the Governor. I asked what she meant by force?— did she mean 
we were to fight for it? — She said no, not to fight for it, but take 
aw ay all the arms ; and that as soon as we h «d done so, we were 
to take possession of them, and turn all the whites off to town. 
As for himself, he did not care, as he was going off the country; 



75 



night, — having at the same time no provisions but some 
biscuit, and a little pork, in consequence of peremptory 



and he wished we would give him a little time, to get away his 
stock, and all his things. From that period, until the Sunday be- 
fore it broke out, no regular plan was laid; I myself held no com- 
munication with Parson Smith; but on Sunday, the 17th, when the 
plan was arranged in Success middle-walk, Quamina went to Mr. 
Smith, who told him we must try to stop a" little, until he could 
get a paper that was to be read to us. When we laid our plan, 
Quamina, Seaton of Success, Manuel of Chateau Margo, Paris, 
Telemachus, Quamina of Nabaclis, and Peter, head-carpenter of 
Le Resouvenir, were the principal sensible men ; there were a great 
many others from Success and Le Resouvenir, who were not deep 
in it ; and I will state to the Court, if they think proper to ask me, 
the list of those whom I know to be principally concerned. Pre- 
vious to the meeting after morning, and before forenoon service, I 
went to Susannah's house, in consequence of a message received by 
me from her son Edward, that she wished to see me. Seaton was 
present when she told me, in her own house, that if one or two 
sensible people w ould come to Mr. Hamilton, he would put us in 
the way of it (Seaton I shall call as a witness). I then wished to 
gee Mr. Hamilton, but found him engaged with two gentlemen, 
walking up and down in the hall. After service I returned, and 
asked her what Mr. Hamilton said?— She answered, he was en- 
gaged, and could not see me; but Mr. Hamilton said, we must go 
by force, and collect as many sensible people as possible ; that if 
the Governor should come to know the reason of it, all we sensible 
people are to come forward, and speak; it is so, and cannot be 
hindered, if we are determined ; that if we were not a parcel of 
cowards, we would have had it already; for it had been ordered for 
some time past. By this I understood our freedom, or at least 
three days in the week. I had received messages several times 
previously from Susannah, by Edward, the little boy, her son. One 
message was, that Mr. Hamilton had wished to see me, about the 
freedom of the negroes having come out ; Dumfries heard the 
message, for we arc always working together in one iogie, or shop; 
and the cross-examination of the boy Edward will show, that he 
was in the habit of carrying messages, of some kind or other. The 
second message related to the arms which Mr. Hamilton promised 
to deliver up, provided we would take them by force. This is in 
some measure proved by Edward's evidence, who corroborate* 
about the packing of the things, and all the other messages were of 
the same kind. It was settled, that Billy and Jackey Reid were to 
command at Mahaica; Joseph, Telemachus, and Sandy, at Bache- 
lor's Adventure; they were then to go upwards to meet Jackey 
Reid, and downwards to meet the other leaders; Paris, from Good 
Hope, Goodluck, belonging to Mr. Peter M'Clure, and Frederick, 



76 

orders from Colonel Leahy to proceed into the woods, 
without a moment's delay. The party was even un-> 



of Turkeyen, were to have mentioned it at the Thomas. Goodluck 
said, that he knew the way to come at the fort, and that if the 
people would all agree, he would come. Paris told me, a week 
before, that it was settled at the Thomas; they however would; 
and I myself told them, that if they did so, the troops would murder 
us; he said, that is the only place where we ought all to go and 
die. Active was witness to this, and has been examined against 
me, and cross-examined. The plan then was, to take the arms, 
and confine all the white people in the stocks, for fear they should 
escape to town, and send the troops up before day-light, and that 
they should all be permitted to go to town the next morning. After 
the white people had gone to town, we were all to provide our- 
selves, and wait till the Governor ivould come up, or send up, to 
know why we acted in such a way; and, if he did not come or 
send, we were not to trust to go to town, but remain quiet on the 
estates, and not work. We did not expect any body would know 
of it, until the next morning, and we were desirous that no injury 
should be done to any of the whites, that no complaints be made 
against us. Joseph, of Bachelor's Adventure, and Bristol, proposed 
to break up the bridges, and it was agreed that they should not be 
broken up, until they saw the troops were coming up. Giilis, a 
field negro, formerly belonging to Mon Repos, and now a field- 
negro on plantation De William, agreed to get us many estates to 
join us on the West Coast, and to communicate with us, but we 
never received any message from him. Goodluck was appointed 
to communicate the time of rising to the Thomas. I saw him on 
Sunday, the 17th, and he told me, that he would inform them that 
they were to begin on Monday evening, on the Thomas, and to go 
up all the estates on the East Coast; he also engaged to speak to 
four boat-captains of Leguan, but I believe he only spoke to two. 
The Thomas people were to come up the Coast to us, and not to 
attempt the town. My conduct at Success has been proved by the 
manager and overseer; and, although I had been recently tied, and 
for the first time in my life, and much irritated, yet I protected the 
managers and overseers from being injured, and put in the stock?. 
Richard has been a runaway for several months, is very violent, 
and will do harm yet, if left at large; I recommend his being se- 
cured, at any expense or trouble, as he will be a rallying-point for 
all the disaffected negroes; he is not to be trusted; he is a Gangee, 
but speaks the C&rahiantee. I admit the whole of Calais' evidence 
to be true; but, with regard to Mr. Spencer's evidence, it is partly 
right, and partly wrong. I was there, but I deny having had a gun 
or belt ; and I never had a gun in my hand, the whole of that 
evening, night, or next day; it was a cutlass which I carried. I 
saved Mr. Spencer from the stocks, but did not give the orders to 



77 



provided with hammocks, bedding, or any sort of con- 
venience; they were obliged to cut down the branches 



proceed to Mori Repos; it must have been some other person. 
The negroes and myself went on to Mon Repos, and, when we 
reached there, we met the Baron's people, and a great crowd % 
many were firing. In order to stop the firing, I went round by the 
engine-house, close by the sick-house, for I was afraid to approach 
near, in consequence of a sharp fire which was kept up. I heard 
the fire when I was near to the buildings. From the sick-house I 
went straight to the manager's yard; I did succeed in stopping the 
firing close by the house, as Louis states, and I am sure he must 
have seen me. I did not stay at all, neither had I a gun; to prove 
that, I toi'k no active part, except in stopping the firing. I refer 
to my witnesses, Active and Seaton, just as I was by the sick-house, 
I called to the negroes to come away; I might have said 6 Come 
out,' as stated by Tony. I do not think that more than two guns 
were fired, after I £ot into the yard, and I succeeded in getting 
them away. I positively did nothing more at Mon Repos. When 
Colonel Leahy, of the 21st Regiment, was at Bachelor's Adventure, 
I was at plantation Elizabeth Hall. I was called by the people to 
bring the paper, which had been signed by the different managers 
up the Coast, that they had been well treated. I passed through 
the people, and went up to Colonel Leahy, and gave it to him ; he 
gave me, in return, a printed paper of the Governor's, which he 
read, and desired us to go home, and tell ail the people to deliver 
up all the arms to the manager on the estate. I told him I was 
not living up the Coast, and he said, never mind, go home. While 
we were talking, Prince came up, was very violent, and wanted to 
tie up Colonel Leahy, and said, not to let him go; but Joseph, 
Telemachus, and Sandy, who had charge of all the people up the 
Coast, would not agree. The Colonel's discourse I thought quite 
regular. Colonel Leahy was still amongst us, when Captain Croal 
Game up, and wished to speak; he asked if any of the head people 
were round him. I went up to him, as the people were making a 
noise, as he stated; what he says is very correct, except as to the 
gun, which is a mistake; it was a cutlass, and I carried it inclined 
along my arm, just as he showed the Court. When he left us, I 
went to the bridge. I told the people that I was going home, and 
I walked boldly d >wn the road about half a mile, after I had got 
the Governor's pass, When I heard the firing, some people called 
to me, and I returned, and found that Hamilton of Success was 
wounded; a man named Orange w s bringing him; he was his 
brother-in-law; and, with the assistance of some others, Qu^cco 
of Chateau Marg<>, and Dick of Success, we carried him to New 
Orange Nassau. I returned home on that Very evening, about 
eight ; my father Quamina returned to us at Success back-dam, with 
a /basket, containing gome bread, and two bottles, I b~' : ™<* of 



78 



of trees, piling them one above the other, on which 
they contrived to rest during the night. As soon as 



porter. I ate some bread, but I drank nothing. My father said 
he had been to Parson Smith, who informed him, 'Now that we 
had begun, we must go on with it.' I never told, in presence of 
Goodluck, that I had been to the fort. I was simply explaining 
to Bristol, and others, that Daniel lived there.— [Call Bristol to 
prove this.] — Mr. Edmonstone came on Friday, with Baron Van 
Grovestein; he sent me a message, that I must bring all the people 
to the buildings, and he hoped we would be all willing to receive 
him : many of us came. The next day, Mr. Edmonstone called 
aizain himself alone, and took off bis sword; we went into the 
dwelling house, and, when he was coming away, he wanted me to 
come with him to town in the chaise, I felt afraid, and went to 
my house, under pretence of getting clothes ; I was afraid to give 
myself up, and went into the bush with my father, and many others. 
I have now explained and declared every thing I know. The plans 
of signing of the papers, by the different gentlemen, was a plan that 
we had adopted to send to the Governor. I went up to Dochfour y 
on purpose to see Jackey Reid; and I was very angry with him, 
for he had made a regular agreement with me. Jackey and I had 
had regular discourse, in the presence of my father. Quamina, and 
Bristol, about freedom being come out. Jackey said it was very 
true, he had made a trial, and in this manner. Before the news- 
came, the coopers used to make two puncheons out of dressed 
staves every day; but, since the news had come out. they had only 
turned out one, to see if their master would be satisfied. He said 
he had been sick, 'or laid up,' for two or three days, that the blame 
might not fall upon him; and the white cooper had told his master 
about it; that his master had tried them a second time, and had 
told them, * If you don't choose to work, you may go to sleep.' 
I have no witnesses to prove the agreement; but it was settled, 
that when every thing was fixed, I should let him know, and he 
was to hold himself in readiness, and get all the other estates ready 
provided. But, Gentlemen, if I had made no agreement, would I 
gQ and write such a letter, with a man I never agreed with? I beg 
you Gentlemen of the Court bear this in mind, of the way Jackey 
Reid behaved in this Court, after being sworn. I was acquainted 
with him, from his being a teacher, and before I knew any other 
on that estate. He was over all the people on Dochfour, and 
many neighbouring estates. Do you think that man tells the 
. emen, w hatever my sentence is, 1 submit to it with 
r .nation. I have lived all my life upon Success, my master's 
e . . where i was born, thirty years ago; and, during the whole 
been well treated, and have done my duty contented 
and happy I cannot and do not deny, that I have been concerned 
in this rebellion; but I declare solemnly, that I could not have 



73 



clay-light began to appear next morning, the march 
was resumed, still keeping the track [now from P to fr}. 

acted thus, had I not been told that we were entitled to our free- 
dom, and that it was withheld from m by our masters. Not only 
was every deacon and member of the church acquainted with it, 
before it broke out, but even Parson Smith knew the whole plan. 
It was told him by my father and Bristol, on Sunday the 17th 
August, and Bristol told it to Manuel, and Manuel told it to me. 
Ask Bristol, he will tell Parson Smith wanted us to wait— it he did 
not know what we were going to do, would he have told us to 
wait? I appeal to you, and to the evidence before y >u, concerning 
my conduct, whether I havti not prevented every mischief I could, 
and whether I have not saved some lives, for, if blo^d had once 
been shed, no effort could have stopped it afterwards. Richard 
and Hamilton were the head men at Success. I never headed any 
of the gangs, but every man at Triumph and Mon Repos knew me. 
When I stopped the firing, the people then paid me great attention, 
and I exerted myself to prevent any person being hurt. T beg the 
Court to examine my witnesses, and particularly Susannah, and to 
see if I have not spoken the truth. I never carried a gun; but I 
will say fairly I had a cutlass, which I carried the whole time. I 
hope my witnesses will prove that I have spoken the truth, for such 
I solemnly declare to be what I have related; and I humbly throw 
myself upon the mercy of the Court — I am satisfied that I have 
had a fair trial —I have seen the anxiety with which every Member 
of this Court-Manial has attended to the evidence, andihe patience 
with which they have listened to the cross-examinations of the 
witnesses. From the hour I was made prisoner by Captain M'Turk, 
up to this time, I have received the most humane treatment from 
all the whites; nor have I had a single insulting expression from a 
white man, either in prison, or any where else. Before this Court 
I solemnly avow, that many of the lessons and discourses, and the 
parts of Scripture selected for us in chapel, tended to make us 
dissatisfied with our situations as slaves; and, had there been no 
Methodists on the East Coast, there would have been no revolt^ 
as you must have discovered by the evidence before you. The 
deepest concerned in the revolt, were the negroes most in Parson 
Smith's confidence. The half-sort of instructions we received, I 
now see w T as highly improper; it put those who could read, on ex- 
amining the Bible, and selecting passages applicable to our situation 
as slaves; and the promises held out therein were, as we imagined, 
fit to be applied to our situation, and served to make us dissatisfied 
and irritated against our owners, as we were not always able to 
make out the real proceeding of these passages. For this I refer 
to my brother-in-law, Bristol, if I am speaking the truth or not. 
I w@uid not have avowed this to you now, were I not sensible that 
I ought to make every atonement for my past conduct, and put 
you on your guard in future. 

" New J<ul, Georgetown, Sept, 20, 1823. 



80 



• taring this day's march, they passed by four abandoned 
encampments of former fugitives, at the last of which 

"By the Court.— Let the prisoner state the way in which this 

defence was pat together. 

" Prisoner. — I dictated the words, or the substance of them, to 
Mr. Herbert, and he wrote them down. I am perfectly satisfied 
with the words, which contain my meaning. 

" Mr. Charles Herbert called by the Court. 
"I an) a Barrister of the Middle Temple; was called early in 
June 1 8 3 8, and have practised as an Advocate in this Colony ever 
si-ice, with the exception of the Trinity Term, 1819. I was with 
the prisoner at the jail about seven hours last night; I wrote the 
defence just read from the prisoner's own dictation, as far as the 
Words, 4 / throw myself on the mercy of the Court. 1 Every ?hing 
Was suggested to me by Jack, and I was very particular in taking 
clou n his meaning, and in one instance used his own words. I 
have endeavoured to form a connected narrative from the story he 
\ id. 1 returned to the Jail early this morning, in order to enlarge 
upon an idea of Jack's, concerning the cause of the ri-ing — when I 
found it had been done by Mr. Edmonstone. It is fit I should 
state, that the prisoner is very intelligent; he reads very well ; I 
have dealt with more stupid clients in my practice. 

w Mr. Edmonstone examined. 
u I am Aid-de-Camp to Colonel Goodman, and go round the 
Jail every morning. I saw on the table oi' the Cipier the defence 
Mr. Herbert had written for Jack, and found that it did not con- 
tain many statements which Jack had told me in repeated conver- 
sations I had held with him. I went down to the cell, and told it 
to Jack, and put down many suggestions for him, and read them 
ever afterwards to him, and he approved of them." 



WITNESSES FOR THE PRISONER. 
" Negro Active examined. 
u I recollect seeing Cato at Jack's house, six or seven weeks 
before the rebellion. I did not hear that their freedom had come 
out; but Cato said, if they did not seek for their rights, they were 
cowards; that it was all before them. I went with York, and took 
a letter to Joe Simpson: the reply was verbal — to go away, and 
he would send an answer by and by. It was on Friday, about ten 
days before the war. I saw the Prisoner at Triumph; he had a 
cutlass, and I am sure he had no gun. I saw Jack do nothing else 
at Mon Repos, except stop the bring. 

" Negro Dumfries examined. 
M I saw Cato at Jack's house; he brought a message from Joe, 
that Jack must send two J.;en to him. I was present in the cooper's 



81 



?hey missed the track [at h]; notwithstanding every 
exertion to recover it, they did not succeed. They 



shop on Success, when the little boy Edward brought a message to 
Jack, through Susannah, from Mr. Hamilton; the boy said, that 
Jack was to choose three sensible negroes, and come over to Mr. 
Hamilton with them. I also heard Edward say, that Mr. Hamilton 
was ready to give his gun and powder to the negroes, provided 
they would promise not to hart him. 

" Negro Daniel examined. 
" I am the Governor's servant, and am a free man, made so by 
the Colony. I remember seeing the prisoner Jack in July, on a 
Sunday, at the Camp-House; he came and inquired for me; I went 
to him ; he came to know from me, as the Governor's servant, if 
I had heard any news; 1 asked what news; he said he had heard 
all the slaves were to be made free; I told him I had not -heard 
any such news, nor did I suppose it could be true; he said the 
reason why he asked me was, because Dr. M'Turk came up the 
Coast with a paper from the Governor, desiring that the head men 
of the estates should be brought together; he meant the head 
slaves; forbidding them, as far as he could understand, coming to 
town on Sunday without an overseer or a pass; he said they are 
allowed to keep their meeting on the estates from seven till nine, 
and to go to their church service freely, but they were forbid com- 
ing with any complaints to town. I told him I knew of no such 
things. He asked me if I could read and write; I knew him some 
years ago, when I was servant to Governor Bentinck, and we were 
beginning to learn to read together; I took the Bible to know how 
he could read, and read a whole chapter to him. 3d chapter 1st 
Epistle to Timothy; he read a verse of one chapter, which he said 
was read in the chapel which he frequented. When he spoke to 
Hie about the people being free, I told him to beware, that I knew 
several people having lost their lives by that notion; for when the 
Governor made a proclamation after that business in Barbados, he 
had made me a present of one, and I knew from thence. I go to 
town chapel, which has no connection with the chapel up the 
Coast. T know Bristol of Chateau Margo, and Seaton; I had been 
living with Governor Bentinck; I know Cato; he has many times 
come to Camp-House. 

" Negro Bristol examined. 
u I was present when Jackey Reid related to Jack, that they had 
made one puncheon instead of two, since the news of their freedom 
had come out. 

u Cross-examined, by the Judge- Advocate. 
" I am a deacon of Le Resouyenir. I cannot call to my mind 
any particular passage in the Bible,, but I might, if the passage were 



v :v obliged to march without any track, in the direc- 
tion of Coarabana Creek; and, after marching till six 
in the evening, encamped for the night among high 
bush, [at s], suffering every privation, and almost ex- 
hausted with fatigue. On the following morning, Sep- 
tember 1st, they arose at day-break, and were proceeding 
on their march, when Captain Hillhouse informed 
Captain M'Turk, that the Bucks would proceed no 
further. Captain M'Turk, however, was determined 
to push on for Mahaica Creek, towards which direction 
he immediately marched, with the detachment of Mi- 
litia. The Bucks in consequence left him, and their 
leaders, Captains Brandes and Hillhouse, also. Cap- 
tain M'Turk and his party continued their march, 
travelling through a savannah for about eleven hours, 
and arrived at a small creek, [at z], where they found 



read to me. I saw Quamina at Parson Smith's house, the Sunday 
before this broke out; they were there together a little more than 
half an hour. 

" Negro Sea ton examined* 
" I belong to Mr. Smith's chapel; am a deacon and teacher. I 
beard Susannah tell Jack in her house, that Mr. Hamilton said, if 
we would bring three or four sensible people to him, he would put 
them in the way of obtaining the free-paper which had come out 
for them. I saw Jack on plantation Triumph; he had a cutlass; 
I heard the firing at Mon Repos, while Jack was on the side-line ; 
be went to the buildings, and not more than two or three guns 
were fired, after he arrived there; I saw him stop the firing. I saw 
him at Bachelor's Adventure, Clonbrook, and Nabaclis, and at all 
ot' those places he had a cutlass, but no gun. I saw him prevent 
the people from beating Calais, the driver of Triumph; hf prevent- 
ed them from putting the managers and overseers into the stocks, 
I did not see him give any orders to go from Triumph to Mon 
Repos; and, if he had given any such orders, I must have heard 
them, as I was close to him. 

" Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy examined, 
w I am a Colonel of the 21st R. N. B. Fusileers. I saw the pri- 
son? r at Bachelor's Adventure; I gave him a Proclamation of Mar- 
tial-Law; at the same time I stated, that if they moved on to town 
to see the Governor, they would be hanged; that if they had any 
thing to o tununicate to him, it was to go through me. A man 
whom I know, made a proposition to tie me t and the prbcriar 
and others prevented theuj. M 



8S 

trie water, smh as was, very acceptable. Proceeding 
on their march, in a northerly direction, they arrived 
at the back of plantations Golden Grove and Nabacls, 
where they halted for the night 5 and on the following 
morning, (Tuesday,) at six o'clock, they proceeded on 
by the public road to the Post Felicity, where they 
remained. The detachment of Militia marched for 
town, and arrived in the evening of Wednesday, Sep- 
tember 3d. Thus ended an expedition, after the most 
harassing and dreary march, — in which two of the 
party fainted from fatigue, and many of them were up 
to their middle in water, — without its being attended 
with that success which had been anxiously hoped and 
expected. 

It was necessary, however, that another expedition 
should be taken, in consequence of the absentees being 
of the most dangerous character, and known to be 
leaders in the revolt. The two principal ones, Jack 
and Quamina, [father and son], were yet lurking in the 
woods, for the apprehension of whom a thousand guil- 
ders had been offered by the Qolony; and a notorious 
rebel, named Richard, belonging to Success, had eluded 
every pursuit, although he had been seen aback of 
some of the estates. 

On Saturday, September 6th, that active Officer, 
Captain M'Turk, was again ready at the Post Felicity, 
with a party of nearly forty Indians, and a detachment 
of Militia under Lieutenant Rossiter, joined by Com- 
missary Edie, who volunteered his services. About 
five o'clock in the afternoon, a negro [Frank] came and 
gave information to Captain M'Turk, that he had seen 
the ringleader Jack Gladstone at Chateau Margo, the 
previous evening, and that he had no doubt but that 
he would be there that night. The Captain immedi- 
ately sent a boy to ascertain the truth; and on his re- 
turn, he stated, that Jack was in the negro-houses of 
that plantation. In consequence of this intelligence, 
the whole party were ordered to be ready by one 
o'clock of the following morning; they accordingly 
departed for Chateau Margo, at the appointed time, 
and arrived at the negro-houses of that estate, [see r in 



84 

' M . about half-past two o'clock, and immediately 
surrounded them, remaining there under arms until 
past fivej — when Captain M'Turk gave orders 
for a door to he opened of one of the houses, which 
was immediately obeyed from the inside; arid, on some 

party entering, they discovered the rebel Jack, 
who was instantly secured. Suspecting that Quamina 
or oilier rebels were in the same house, they were de- 
termined to examine it minutely; but, after a close in- 
iction, could find no other person, until one of the 
I , directing his attention to the roof of the building, 
th( re discovered a female astride across the rafters. 
On their making her descend, she proved to be Jack's 
wife, and she was accordingly secured, as w T ell as her 
I and. The remaining houses were examined, but 

arch proved unavailing. The party returned 
with tln-ir prisoners to the Post Felicity, and at noon 
they were escorted to town, by a detachment of Militia. 

At one o'clock, p.m., the bush expedition was 01- 
dered to muster, with their respective servants, having 
every thing in readiness, and a sufficiency of provisions 
for at least four days. The march commenced through 
the middle-walk of plantation Le ilesouvenir; and, on 
arriving far aback of that estate, the detachment di- 
vided itself into three parties — scouring the plantain* 
walks, coffee-pieces, and examining the watch-houses. 
The three divisions met aback of the Triumph, and 
arrived at the back-dam watch-house of Mon Repos, 
at six o'clock, where they halted for the night. On 
the following morning, September 8th, at six o'clock, 
they proceeded into the woods, in a direct line between 
the above estates, [see Map], Captain M'Turk leading 
as well as the guide Messmelion, [a negro that was 
taken coming out of the bush, and promised to lead 
the party to the camp occupied by the revolted negroes.] 
The march was continued along the water-path of Mon 
Repos until ten o'clock, when they altered theeir course 
to S. K. [at f.], having got into a savannah, which be- 
came heavy, as the party advanced. They continued 
ori the same track through pegass and water, in which 
fhej e often up to their middle. Arriving at a 



85 

dump oF bush, [e], at three o'clock, the party iffi* 
2X 1 T m ° C ^ ? Dt t ldi »f to repose therTL *fi 
night It was uere that the Captain discovered that 
tnere were net provisions enough to supply S?Wb ifel 

mmners,) and they returned on the following "JS 
September 9th much fatigued, having been^oblted "to 
arag through the savannah a negro d^thS par fwl£ 
had made himself beastly intoxicated. The expeaiSon 

guiae Messmeiion lost, or pretended to lose his w«v 
He pointed to a bottle, which he said he pkcS in^ 

pEiv r be ?\ C ° ffli "g from the bushfSds was 
pkunly perceived; he was, however, Severely beaten 
with sticks by the Bucks hut nil L cveiel > Leat en 
appearing, from 0^0^^^^ 
there were none of the insurgents in ffffifc H 

ni ?! lp ° r<ier I 7 s then given for returning, and the 

at a spot or dry bush m the savannah, they sunned 
and slung their hammocks for the night ResuE 
their march, the next morning, through a tonuouf 

tney armed at the bacK-dam watch-house of plantation 
Lusigrmn at one o'clock, p. m . They proceed on 
and halted at the watch-house of Mon ReS and' 
after taking some refreshment, the party marched down 
fchvf e "l ln K,f ^^tate, and Li/ e d at the S 
f ehc H y at half-past three o'clock, September IQth 
A envision of this detachment, under Dr. Johnson 

to! .,; t0 ° k five trunks > clothinp. pi peR 

& SCMsr A ™ - 

The above detachment of Militia had been scarce!* 



86 



dismissed, wtien another arrived f/om town, under the 
coini pi i ( • di Lieutenant Nurse — himself having private 
instructions trom the Governor, in consequence of the 
r ru Dumfries slating to His Excellency, that he 
v. u v. conduct any party to Jack and Quamina's camp. 
In consequence of this communication, that indefatiga- 
ble Officer Captain M'Turk, although just arrived from 
a tiresome and fruitless expedition, prepared himself 
again to encounter the harassing fatigues that are 
invariably to be met with in a Demerara toiest. 

Lieutenant Nurse, with thirty-five men, and Wish- 
rop, the post-holder of Masoenery Creek, with twenty 
Indians, joined by Captain M'Turk, marched on the 
l £ 2th, about noon, to plantation Beterverwagting, sur- 
rounded the negro-houses there, and afterwards pro- 
ceeded on about four miles farther up the Coast, to 
New Orange Nassau, when they surrounded the build- 
ings of that plantation, and continued there for the 
night. Early in the morning of the following day, 
they marched to the back-dam of Lusignan, and from 
thence through the bush to the back of Mon Repos, 
where they halted for a short time. It was here that 
Captain M'Turk, having resolved not to scour the 
bush, took with him part of the detachment, and pro- 
ceeded [at an early hour, Sept. 13 J in a straight line 
to the camp of Jack and Quamina, — which was dis- 
covered, after a continued march of twelve hours [see 
N. in the Map]. At this place were four negro-houses, 
with plenty of corn and rice in cultivation, but not 
bearing. In the houses were found trunks and pack- 
alls, in which were various articles accumulated by the 
fugitives *, and also some muskets, powder, and shot, 



* The following is a list, taken by Lieutenant Nurse, of the articles 
found at the Negro Encampment, Sept. 13: — 

7 books— being 2 Bibles, 1 Testament, 1 Wesley's Hymn-book, 
l Watt's do., Spelling-book*, and Sunday Tracts. 

A Case, wi h Compass and Instruments. 

3 Hammocks, burnt. 

3 Do. brought in. 

4 Sauce-pans. 



87 



On the following day, the party, with little deviation 
from the same track, marched out of the bush, and re- 
joined the division left at the back of Mon Repos. 
Here Captain M'Turk directed the Post-holder, with 
the Indians, to endeavour to search and find out the 
track of the fugitives from the bush to the estates, 
which they discovered on the succeeding day. On the 
following morning, 16th of Sept. the party pursued the 
track, which lay behind plantation Success, and struck 
across, aback of Chateau Margo; and, while scouring 
the bush behind that estate, they discovered a fugitive 
negro, who was promised his life, if he pointed out 
Quamina and his adherents,— which he agreed to do, 
but completely misled the party, by takin £ them in a 
contrary direction. Captain M'Turk, suspecting he 
was deceived, requested those who were at that moment 
with him, (which consisted of only sixteen,) to separate 
m different directions, to scour the bush, in which they 
were at last successful, by discovering two negroes, 
one of whom was Quamina, who, although repeatedly 
called to stand, endeavoured to make off; and, from 



8 Blankets, 

1 Packall. 

2 Trunks, containing Musket-balls, burnt in the bush, 
A Powder-flask, with Powder. 

A White Muslin Dress. 

A Chintz Petticoat. • 

2 Do. 

4 Pair of Trowsers. 

3 Shirts and a Shift. 
1 Cartridge-box. 

1 Flannel Night-Gown. 
1 Hammer. 
1 Gown. 

1 Brown Surtout. 

1 Black Silk Spencer. 

2 Remnants of Osnaburghs. 
1 Pair of Shoes. 

1 Piece of Salempores. 
A Shift in embryo. 
A Coverlid, burnt. 

1 Negro Hat. 

2 Razors. 



SS 



the nature of the bush at that point, being so very 
thick, it was impossible to secure him; and, the mo- 
ment he was about to get out of sight, he was fired 
Upon by an Indian, [named Cattow, alias Skillikelly], 
and was shot through the temple, side, and arm*. In 
this expedition, the party at different times had taken 
live fugitives besides Quamina, two of whom got clear 
off; the remainder of them were ordered to carry the 
dead body — and Captain M'Turk, with Lieutenant 
Nurse, and the detachment under them, marched out 
of the bush by the same track, and arrived at the Post 
Felicity. 

On the following day, the 17th, a gibbet was erected 
in front of plantation Success^ by the side of the pub- 
lic road, and there surrounded by the Negroes of that 
estate, and a party of Militia, under arms, with the In- 
dians ; the body of Quamina was hung up in chains* 
The detachment of Militia, under Lieutenant Nurse, 
marched back to the Post at Le Resouvenir, and the 
next morning returned to Georgetown with twelve pri- 
soners, taken on the Coast at different times — three of 
whom were those above mentioned. 

At this period of general alarm, when numerous ab- 
sentees were unaccounted for of dangerous characters, 
an apprehension was naturally entertained that, through 
the woods, they might be forming channels of commu- 
nication with the yet peaceably disposed Negroes* 
through the whole extent of the Coast to leeward. It, 
therefore, became a matter of policy as well as necessity, 
on the west side of the Demerara River, to raise an ex- 
pedition immediately, in order to penetrate into the 
woods behind the estates, to endeavour to detect and to 
seize runaways that might be found lurking there. The 
following narrative of the progress of an expedition, 
towards the Boeiasirie Creek, for that purpose, has 



* The point where Ouamina was shot, is pointed out in the 
W.I, and the four lines marked M. and continuing from 
to estates, n present generally the tcacks which parties fallowed 
si ditiercnt periods* 



89 



been given by an eye-witness, and seems so interesting 
as to deserve a place in this Work : — 

'*t On Monday, the 15th September, Lieutenant Allan, accompani- 
ed by Lieutenant Millar, from Berbiee, (who patriotically volunteer- 
ed his services), and about seventeen of «he young men from Leonora 
Post, twenty-six Indians, under their Captain, Goliah, and about twice 
as many Negroes, entered the bush aback of plantation Groenveld. 
They had not proceeded an hour's march before thev discovered the 
still warm embers of a recent fire, and other appearances, which led to 
the belief that bush-negroes were in advance, at no great distance. 
Acting on this impulse, the party advanced as rapidly as the nature 
of circumstances would permit, and, in three and a half hours more, 
fell in with a camp consisting of ten huts, and, as they afterwards 
learned, containing twenty-six bush negroes. From the scattered 
situation of the huts, to surround them was impossible. Ere the 
party was^yet up, they had, in fact, taken the^ilarm, and fled with 
precipitation. In scouring the bush around, nine prisoners were 
taken, and two, who made a most determined resistance, were un 
fortunately killed, by the Indians, in self-defence, during the warmth 
of the pursuit. 

" In this cvmp, there was no cultivation of any kind ; they seem- 
ed to subsist entirely by theft and plunder. The party remained 
here for the night, and, after destroying every thing, proceeded next 
morning, in their course, towards the Boerasirie Post, one of the 
i prisoners acting as a guide. On the second day the party came up 
j w , ith another of the negroes belonging to the camp they had left, on 
| hi s wa y to 'he great camp at Bonasique, of which the camp destroy- 
ed, appeared to have been only an out-post. On the third day the 
I party arrived at the camps of 1818, on the high Jandsi and were 
I then within a few hours of the Post ; but the path to the great 
camp lying through the swamps, along the Boerasirie, it was consi- 
I dered proper to scour that tract, which occupied a day and a half— 
the party not arriving at the Post before the middle of the fifth day 
from their entrance at plantation Groenveld— the whole march hav- 
ing lain through very deep swamps. 

" Besides the ten prisoners taken, mostly very old absentees, se^ 
yeral others, belonging to the same camp, have been caught skulk- 
ing about the back dams of the several Estates, having been driven 
out by fear and hunger ; -so that out of the twenty-six of which the 
camp consisted, there are now only six or seven still unaccounted 
I for ; and even these it is not likely can long remain in the bush, 

deprived as they are of provisions. 
I " On arriving at the Post at Boerasirie, Lieutenant Allan learned 
I that the large camp at Bonasique had already been attacked by 
Lieutenant Lees, and that the Negroes had escaped, in consequence 
of having received information of what was going on, from one of 
those who escaped from the camp aback of the Groenveld. Under 
these circumstances, to proceed was considered useless. Patroles 



90 



were stationed along the Boerasirie, but without intercepting any of 
the runaways. — Onthe ninth day the party returned, 

" During the whole of this most arduous service, the greatest har- 
mony prevailed throughout the party." 

Of all the most dangerous insurgents now missing, 
Was Richard, formerly alluded to ; numerous reports of 
the place of his concealment were abroad, but the gene- 
ral idea seemed lo be entertained was, that he mighty 
by perseverance, be discovered in the bush behind 
plantation Success. Accordingly, that anxious and de- 
termined Gentleman, Captain M'Turk, of the Militia, 
with about eleven privates of his own Company, pro- 
ceeded into the woods at the above point, on Monday, 
the 29th of September ; and, after a fruitless search^ 
though continued with the utmost vigilance and caution, 
and after enduring the grievous hardships and fatigues 
necessarily inflicted upon all who range those wild 
forests, they were obliged to return on the Friday fol- 
lowing, to their pain as w^eil as their disappointrnent.* 

It is now necessary to advert to a case, intimately 
connected with the Insurrection — of which we have, in 
the foregoing pages, endeavoured to give a concise yet 
faithful narrative, which has justly excited the deepest 
interest. We refer to the arraignment and trial, by 
Court-Martial, of John Smith, of the London Mission- 
ary Society, — exercising his functions as a Preacher,, 
under the authority of the Laws of the Colony, at plan- 
tation Le Resouvenir, on the East Coast. On the 13th 
of October, the Court duly met, and was composed of 
the following Members : — 



* It was not until the 27th of December, that Richard was a-fe 
last taken. On the evening of that day [Saturday] in attempting 
to j ss Mahaicouy Creek, being about twelve miles from Mahaica 
( reck, he \vas reeognized by two Negroes, watchmen on an adjoin- 
bi [rotation. They succeeded in securing him, and he was brought 
to leorg4 town, by a detachment of the East Coast Militia, on the 
following Monday. 



at 



$irf*nrtttf, 

Lieutenant-Colonel S. A. Goodman, H. P. 48th RegimenL 
Lieutenant Colonel Charles Wray", Militia Staff, 
Captain W. Killekelly, Military Staff. 

T\ Stewart, 1st West India Regiment. 

C. Campbell, Royal North British Fusileers^ 

Richard Daniel, ditto. 

L. Cr Appelius, ditto. 

Thomas Fairweather, ditto. 
Lieut. R. Gregg, 4th, King's own. 

T. C. Hammill, Royal North British Fusi!eers> 

W. H. Hennts, Royal Artillery. 

J. C. Peddie, Royal North British Fusileers. 
Lieut. A. Gordon,. Royal Engineers. 

C. O'H. Booth, Royal North British Fusileers; 

R. Anstruther, ditto. 

Smith was arraigned on the following grave and seri- 
ous charges ; — 

First Charge. — For that he, the said John Smiih r long previous 
to and up to the time of a certain Revolt and Rebellion, which 
broke out in the United Colony of Demerara and Essequebo, on or 
about the 18th of August now last past, did promote, as far as ie- 
him lay, discontent and dissatisfaction in the minds of the Negra 
Slaves towards their Lawrnl Masters, Managers, and Overseers- 
he, the said John Smith, thereby intending to excite the said Ne- 
groes to break out in such open Revolt and Rebellion, against the 
authority of their Lawful Masters, Managers, and Overseers, con- 
trary to his Allegiance and against the Peace of our Sovereign Lord 
the King, his Crown and Dignity. 

Second Charge. — For that lie, the said John Smith, having, about 
the 17th day of August last, and on divers other days and times- 
theretofore preceding, advised, consulted, and corresponded with a 
certain Negro named Quamina, touching and concerning a certain 
intended Revolt and Rebellion of the Negro Slaves within the Co- 
lonies of Demerara and Essequebo ; and further, after such R,evolt 
and Rebellion had actually commenced and was in a course of pro- 
secution, he, the said John Smith, did further aid and assist in such 
Rebellion, by advising, consulting, and corresponding, touching the 
same, with the said Negro Quamina,. to wit, on the 19th and 20th- 
o£ August last past, he, the said John Smith, well knowing such 
Revolt and Rebellion to be in progress, and the said Negro Qaami- 
na to b j engaged iherein . 

Third Charge.— For that he, the said John Smith, on the 17th 
of August last past, and for a certain period of time thereto pre- 
ceding, having come to the knowledge of a certain Revolt and Re- 
bellion intended to take pj *ce within this Colony, did not make 
known the same to the proper Authorities j which Revolt and Re- 



92 

: [lion lid Mjbseque tly take place, to wit, on or about the 18th 

of August now last past. 

/. , , /. i". rrrr.-For that he, the said John Smith, after such 
R, oli and Rebellion had taken place, and during the existence 
th • to wit, on or about Tuesday and Wednesday, the 19th and 
d Au{ list now last past, was at plantation Le Resouvenir, in 
presence of and held communication with Quamina, a negroof plan- 
- he, the said John Smith, then well knowing the 
v ! . ns to he an Insurgent engaged therein; and that he, the 
laid John Smith, did not use his utmost endeavours to suppress the 
same, by securing and detaining the -said Insurgent Quamina, as a 
prisoner, or by giving information to the proper Authorities, or 
otherwise, hut, on the contrary, permitted the said Insurgent Qua- 
mina to go at Large and depart, without attempting to seize and de- 
tain him, and without giving any information respecting him fo the 
proper Authorities — against the Peact- of our Sovereign Lord the 
King, his Crown and Dignity and against the Laws in force in this 
C ... , . a n •! in defiance of the Proclamation of Martial-Law issued 
bj his E: cellericy the Lieutenant-Governor. 

This important trial, from the voluminous evidence 
which was taken on the occasion, the extreme patience 
and indulgence evinced towards the Prisoner, to give 
him the benefit of every thing that could bear upon his 
innocence, was not concluded until the 24th of the fol- 
lowing month, (November.) On that day the Court 
came to the following decision : — 

u The Court having most maturely and deliberately weighed and 
considered the Evidence adduced in support of these Charges pre- 
fers d Rgainst the Prisoner, John Smith, as well as the Statement 
made bj him in his defence, and the Evidence thereon ; with respect 
to the First Charge, viz : ''For that he, the said John Smith, long 
previous and up to the time of a certain Revolt and Rebellion, 
which broke out in the Colony of Demerara and Essequebo, on or 
about the 18th of August last past, did promote, as far as in him 
[ay, discontent and dissatisfaction in the minds of the Negro Slaves, 
towards their Lawful Masters, Managers, and Overseers, he, the said 
John Smith, thereby intending to excite the said Negroes to break 
out in such open Revolt and Rebellion against the authority of their 
Lawful Masters, Managers, and Overseers, contrary to his Allegi- 
ance, and against the Peace of Our Sovereign Lord the King, his 
Crown and Dignity/'— Is of opinion, that he, the Prisoner, John 
Smith, is guilty of thus much thereof, to wit, "For that he, the 
said John Smith, long previous to, and up to the time of a certain 
Revolt and Rebellion which broke out in this Colony, on or about 
the 18th of August now last past, did promote discontent and dissa- 
tbutctbn in the minds of the Negro Slaves, towards their Lawful 



93 



Masters, Managers, and Overseers," — but acquits him of the re- 
mainder of the said Charge, for want of sufficient proof thereof. 

" With respect to the Second Charge,, namely, " For that he, the 
said John Smith, having, about the 17th day of August last, and oil 
divers other days and times theretofore preceding, advised, consult- 
ed, and corresponded with a certain Negro named Quamina, touch- 
ing and concerning a certain intended Revolt and Rebellion of the 
Negro Slaves within these Colonies of Demerara and Essequebo ; 
and further, after such Revolt and Rebellion had actually commen- 
ced and was in a course of prosecution, he, the said John Smith, 
did further aid and assist in such Rebellion, by advising, consulting, 
and corresponding, touching the same, with the said Negro Quami- 
na, to wit, on the 19th and 20th of August last past, he, the said 
John Smith, then well knowing such Revolt and Rebellion to be in 
progress, and the said Negro Quamina to be an Insurgent, engaged 
therein the Court is of Opinion that he, the Prisoner, John 
Smith, is Guilty of so much thereof, as follows, viz. : — " For that 
he, the said John Smith, having about the 17th day of August last, 
and on one day theretofore preceding, advised, consulted, and cor- 
responded with a certain Negro named Quamina, touching and con- 
cerning a certain intended Revolt and Rebellion of the Negro Slaves 
within these Colonies of Demerara and Essequebo ; and further, af- 
ter such Revolt and Rebellion had actually commenced and was in 
a course of prosecution, he, the said John Smith, did further aid 
and assist in such Rebellion, by advising, consulting, and corres- 
ponding, touching the same, with the said Negro Quamina, to wit, 
on the 20th of August last past, he, the said John Smith, then well 
knowing such Revolt and Rebellion to be in progress, and the Ne- 
gro Quamina to be an Insurgent, engaged therein," — and acquits 
him of the remainder of the said Charge. 

" With respect to the Third Charge, viz.: "For that he, the 
said John Smith, on the 17th of August last past, and for a certain 
time thereto preceding, having come to the knowledge of a cer- 
tain Revolt and Rebellion intended to take place within this Colo- 
ny, did not make known the same to the proper authorities ; which 
Revolt and Rebellion did subsequently take place ; to wit, on or 
about the 18th of August now last past" the Court is of opinion, 
that he, the Prisoner John Smith, is Guilty thereof. 

" With respect to the Fourth Charge, viz.: " For that he, the 
said John Smith, after such Revolt and Rebellion had taken place,, 
and during the existence thereof, to wit, on or about Tuesday and 
Wednesday the 19th and 20th of August now last past, was at plan- 
tation Le Resouvenir, in presence of and held communication with 
Quamina, a Negro of plan ration Success, he, the said John Smith, 
then well knowing the said Quamina to be an Insurgent engaged 
therein, and that he, the said John Smith, did not use his utmost 
endeavours to suppress the same, by securing or detaining the said- 
Insurgent Quamina, as a prisoner, or by giving information to the 
proper authorities, or otherwise ; but, on the contrary,, permitted 
the said Insurgent Quamina zo go at lar^e and 4epart without §fe£ 



94 



tempting to seize and detain him, and without giving any informa- 
tion respecting him to the proper authorities, — against the peace of 
Our Sovereign Lord the Kin<r, his Crown and Dignity, and against 
the Laws in Force in this Colony, and in defiance of the Proclama- 
of Martial Law, issued by his Excellency the Lieutenant Go- 
v" > r the Court is of opinion, that he, the Prisoner John Sn i;h, 
is Guilty of so much thereof as follows, namely : 41 For that he, the 
said John Smith, after such Revolt and Rebellion had taken place, 
a ad during the existence thereof, to wit, on Wednesday the 20th of 
August now last past, was at plantation Le Resouvenir, in presence 
of and held communication with Quamina, a Negro of plantation 
Success, he, the said John Smith, th«-n well knowing the said Qua- 
mina 'o b« an Insurgent engaged therein ; and that he, the said 
John Smith, did not use his utmost endeavours to suppress the 
same, by giving information to the proper authorities ; hut on the 
contrary, permitted the said Insurgent Quamina to go at large and 
depart without giving any information respec ? ing him to the proper 
authorities — against the peace of Our Sovereign Lord the King, his 
Crown and Dignity, and against the Laws in Force in this Colonv, 
and in defia ; ce of the Proclamation of Martial Law, issued by his 
Excellency 'he Lieutenant-Governor," and acquits him of the re- 
mainder of the said Charge. 

" The Court having thus found the Prisoner John Smith, Guilty, 
as above specified, does therefore Sentence him, the Prisoner John 
Smith, to be Hanged by the Neck until Dead; at such time and 
place as his Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor and Commander- 
in-Chief may think fit to direct. But the Court, under all the cir- 
cumstances of the case, begs humbly to recommend the Prisoner 
John Smith, to mercy." 

The Prisoner, who had previously been in custody 
in the Colony -House, was removed to Jail. On the 6th 
of February following, the unfortunate man, who had 
been long before in a bad state of health, departed this 
life;*. awaiting His Majesty's decision as to the sen- 
tence of the Court-Martial. This did not reach the 
Colony till the 30th of the following month, (March), 
which was published by His Excellency the Governor 
05 .' General Order. It was expressed in the following 
terms : — 



* M e die d between 1 and 2 o'clock in the morning. He was at- 
regul airly during his imlis! osition, by skilful physicians — and 
thl unfortunate man had the utvaost attention and kindness shewn 
to im by the humane keeper o\'t!ie prison, [Mr. Pad more], all the 
I' his confinement. His apartment was airy and commodious, 
ind ha I always at his command, every comfort which his taste 
Or his necessities required. He left a wife to deplore his 
(tttej a i rd lament bii Liss. 



95 

" His Majesty has been graciously pleased to remit the Sentence 
of Death against John Smith, and to direct that he be forthwith dis- 
missed from the Colony of Demerara and Essequebo, and enter into 
recognizance in the penalty of Two Thousand bounds, not to re- 
side within the said United Colony, or within His Maj< sty's Coionv 
of Berbicej or within any Colony or Settlement in the possession of 
His Majesty in the West Indies, or within His Majesty's Colonies of 
the Bahama Islands, and the Bermudas or Somers Islands, or with* 
in His Majesty's Settlement at the Bay of Honduras.'* 

On the 19th of January, exactly five months after 
the breaking out of the Insurrection, Martial-Law was 
formally announced to have ceased and determined, arid 
the following General Order was issued on the oc- 
casion: — 

Q # Head-Quarters at Camp-House, 

Demerara, \9th January , 1824. 

The Restoration of Tranquillity, and the consequent discontinu- 
ance of the harassing Duties which the Militia has been called 
upon to perform throughout the Colony, during the Five Eventful 
Months last past, are circumstances s-> deeply interesting to the Co- 
lonists generally, that His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief can- 
not f rbea~ offering them his most cordial congratulations on their 
occurren ce, and on the discontinuance of Martial Law. 

The praise-worihy exertions of Lieutenant Hennis, yid the De- 
tachment of Royal Artillery under his comn.arfd - of Lieutenant- 
Colonel Le hy, of the 21st Fusileers and the gallmt Ptegiment un- 
der his command, as well as those of Captain Stewart, and the De- 
tachment of the 1st West India Regiment— and of every Officer and 
Man of the Garris n, whose hearty < o-operation, patience, and gal- 
lantry, have so mainly contributed to the safety of this variable Se - 
tlem^nt, claim His Excellency's warmest thanks ; and will, he dowbts 
not, be long held in remembrance by the Community. 

To the vigilance, zeal, and intrepidity of Brevet-Major Simpson, 
and the Troop of Cavalry under him, the Commander-in-Chief, and 
the Colony at large, are in an eminent degree indebted— and His 
.Excellency seizes this opportunity of recording his sense of their 
Services. 

His Excellency also requests that Brevtt-Major Albouy will ac- 
cept, and convey to the Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and 
Men or the Artillery Company of Demerara Militia under his com- 
mand, his m st hearty thanks for the supp <rt he has received from 
their discipline, zeal, and good conduct, from the first moment of 
the disturbance to the present period. 

The Commander-in-Chief cannot but express his sense of obliga- 
tion to :v!ajor Croal, and the Rifle Corps D. M. under his com- 
mand, for their gallantry and activity, during the late Revolt ; their 



w 

| i .. . i active exertions, and patient perseverance whilst suf- 
fer 5 i very privation and excessive fatigue, do them infinite honour. 

The Unanimity and willingness of the 1st JBattalion Demerara 
Militi;i, the promptitude with which, under every disadvantage, it 
assembled at the moment of alarm, and the zeal and activity with 
which h his continued to perform (he harassing duties necessarily 
Tequired of it, as well on Detachment as in Georgetown, reflect the 
igh< st credit on Major Tulloh, and the Officers, Non- Commission- 
ed Officers, and Men composing it. To them, as well as to Major 
Frankland and the Officers and Men of the Provisional Battalion, 
D. M. the Commander-in-Chief, at a moment when, by a material 
relaxation in the military duty required of them, he is enabled to 
admit of their generally resuming their ordinary occupations in life, 
begs to express his best thanks for the unremitting support he has 
received from them in common with every Member of the George- 
town Brigade, 

Kis Excellency, sensible of the great advantages this Community 
has derived from the eminent services of Lieutenant-Colonel Good- 
man, the Commandant, to whose military talents and indefatigable 
exerti ons, the present efficient state of the Militia Brigade, under 
his command, is so highly attributable — gladly avails himself of the 
occasion to record tins public testimonial of high approbation of his 
conduct since the commencement of the late Insurrection. In thus 
expres-i :g the obligations which His Excellency owes to Lieutenant- 
Colonel Goodman, he feels proud in the confidence that he speaks 
not only his own opinion, but gives utterance to the unanimous 
sentiments of the Community, which has so materially benefited by 
his unremitting attention in conducting the Duties confided to him 
during a period momentous beyond precedent in this Colony. 

In the ilevolted District, Detachments of the 1st and 2d Batta- 
lions were actively and usefully employed to the eastward, under 
Brevet-M ajor S'Gravcsande; and to the westward, under that indefa- 
tigable Officer, Captain M'Turk, whose judicious arrangements and 
frequent marches into the interior, completed the breaking up of the 
band of Rebels, who retired to the woods, and tended to their 
eventual capture - to these Officers, and the latter in particular, the 
Commander-in-Chief is infinitely indebted for their zeal and exer- 
tions on all occasion*, 

His Excellency begs further to acknowledge the zealous and con- 
stant support he lias received from the Officers of both the Military 
and Colonial Staff— and cannot dismiss the subject without express- 
ing his confident hope, that w hilst circumstances admit of great re- 
i ion of duty, the zeal and unanimity of both Officers and Men, 
will lot cease to be employed in maintaining the Militia in its pre- 
sent effective state, on which their mutual security must so materi- 
ally depend. 

By Command, 

J. R. BRANDT, Lieut.-Colone! and Adjt.-Gen. M. F> 



07 

The following Resolutions were unanimously agreed 
to, by the Honourable Court of Policy .— ° 

EXTRACT from the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Ho- 
nourable the Court of Policy of the Colony and Dependent Dis- 
tricts of Demerara and Essequcbo, at an Extraordinary Ad- 
journed Meeting, held at the Court-House, Georgetown, Deme- 
rara, Tuesday, the I5tk of January, 1824* 

[after prayers.] 

The Court of Policy, feeling anxious to mark its sense of the 
eminent services performed, in the late unhappy Revolt b V the 
Troops composing the Garrison, as well as by the Militia of the 
United Colonies— takes the opportunity afforded it, by the approach- 
ing cessation of Martial -Law, to express its highest approbation of 
and to return its warmest thanks to, His Excellency the Command! 
er-in-Chief, for the able and judicious measures adopted by him, 
which succeeded in putting so speedy a termination to a revolt in 
its nature most serious and alarming— to Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy 
and the Officers and Men of the 21st Regiment— to Captain Stew- 
art, and the Officers and Men of the Detachment of the 1st West 
India Regiment— to Lieutenant Gordon, Commanding the Royal 
Engineers— to Lieutenant Hennis, and the Detachment of the Royal 
Artillery, and to all the Officers composing the Military and Colo- 
nial Staff,— to Lieutenant-Colonel Goodman, and the Officers and 
Men of the Georgetown Brigade of Militia - to the Commanding- 
Officers, Officers, and Men of the Country Battalions of Demerara 
and EssequebQ Militia -and to Captain Muddle (oftheRoval Navy) 
and the Officers and Men of the Marine Battalion. As" a perma- 
nent mark of the Court's esteem and gratitude, it requests* in the 
name of the Colony, that Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy, and the Offi- 
cers of the 21st Regiment, will accept the Sum of Five Hundred 
Guineas, to be laid out in purchase of Plate for the use of their 
Regimental Mess: and as an additional mark of their particular ad- 
miration of Lieutenant-Colonel Leahy's patient, forbearing, but firm 
conduct, in his discharge of the distressing duty which he was called 
upon to perform, the Court also further requests him to accept tire 
sum of Two Hundred Guineas for the purchase of a Sword/ 

The steady and soldier-like conduct of the Detachment of the 
1st West India Regiment, commanded by Captain Stewart, the 
Court cannot too highly estimate ; and it begs, as a testimony of its 
lasting regard, to be allowed to present to'the Mess of that Regi- 
ment, through Captain Stewart, the Sum of Two Hundred Gui- 
neas to be laid out in Plate. 

The important service rendered by Lieutenant Brady, of the 21st 
Regiment, commanding a Detachment at Mahaica, by whose cool, 
steady, and intrepid conduct, aided by the courage and discipline of 
his Men, an early an effectual check was given to the progress of 
the Revolt in that quarter— caijs for a distinguished mark of the 

K 



98 

Court's approbation, which it begs leave to express, by voting to 

Lieutenant Brady the Sum of Fifty Guineas, for the purchase of 
a Sword ; and also by requesting His Excellency the Lieutenant- 
Governor to convey to His Royal Highness the Commander-in- 
Chief, the Court's earnest hope, that his conduct may be viewed in 
such a fight as to procure for him the favourable consideration of 
His Majesty. 

[A True Extract.] 
CHARLES WILDAY, Joint Dep. Sec. 

By Command, 

J. R. BRANDT, Lieut.-Col. and Adjt. Gen. M. F.* 



* The several Replies to the Vote of Thanks, are as follows 

EXTRACT from the Minutes of the Procecdbiss of the Ho- 
nourable the Court of Policy of the Colony and Dependent Dis- 
tricts of Demerara and Essequebo, at its Adjourned Meeting, 
held at the Court House, Georgetown, Demerara, Monday, the 
8th of March, 1824. 

[after prayers.] 
The Court Resolved, that the Secretary be directed to publish 
officially, the Resolution of this Court of the 13th of January last; 
together with the several Replies to the Vote of Thanks reef ived 
from the Officers, as entered on the Minutes of this Court, for gene- 
ral information. 



DcmeraHtj January 1 5th, 1824. 
Sir, — T have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Ex- 
cellency's Letter of the 14th instant, enclosing an Extract from the 
Minutes of the Proceedings of the Honourable the Court of Policy 
of the Colony of Demerara. 

The flattering manner in winch your Excellency and that Ho- 
nourable Court have been pleased to express their approbation of 
the Regiment under my command, will ever be remembered by the 
Officers and Men, with a feeling of proud exultation; and I have, 
great pleasure in conveying to your Excellency and that Honour- 
able Court, their sincere and grateful acknowledgments for the ho- 
nour conferred upon me. 

The Five Hundred Guineas shall be laid out in the purchase of 
a Piece of Plate, to serve as a lasting Memorial of the liberality of 
tlrj Colony of Demerara, and as a flattering mark of their esteem 
an ! approbation of the 21st Fusileers. 

Xhe Twq Hundred Guineas voted to me, shall be appropriated in 
the purchase of a Sword; and I do myself the honour likewise to 
express to your Excellency and the Honourable the Court of Policy, 
< v most grateful thanks fur that additional mark of their, appro- 
bation. * .. '■ . *£" 



99 



The approbation of His Majesty and His Royal 
Highness the Commander-in-Chief, for the conduct of 
the 'regular Troops and the Militia during the Revolt, 
is conveyed in the following extracts of official letters: — - 



The Regiment quits the Colony of Demerara with most unfeign- 
ed regret, and I am desired to express their best, their warmest 
wishes for its prosperity and happiness. The marked and kind at- 
tention shown to the Officers by the Inhabitants generally, but more 
especially by your Excellency, is duly appreciated by them — it car* 
never be forgotten. 

I have the honour to be, your Excellency's most obedient hum- 
ble Servant, 

JOHN THOMAS LEAHY, 
Lieutenant- Colon el 21 si Regt, R. N. B. Fusileers* 

To His Excellency Major -General IvIurrav, > 
Lieutenant- Governor f $c. $c. <§c | 

Demerara, 25th January, 1824. - 
Sir, — I have the honour to transmit you herewith enclosed a 
Letter from Captain Stewart, in reply to your obliging communica- 
tion conveying the sentiments of the Honourable Court of Policy, 
as expressed in their vote of approbation, relative to the conduct of 
Captain Stewart, and the Detachment of the 1st West India Regi- 
ment under his command, during the late unhappy Revolt. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient, very faithful 
Servant, 

H. CAPADOSE, 
Major Comding. Detacht. 1st W. I. Regiment, 

To His Excellency Major- General Murray,} 
Lieut. -Governor, <%c» cjfC. fyc. Demerara* J 

Eoe-Leary, Demerara, 24th January, 1824- 
Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of the Ex- 
tract from the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Honourable Court 
of Policy of the Colony of Demerara, &c, which you had forwarded 
to Major Capadose for my information ;; and I beg to be allowed 
(through you) in behalf of the Officers and Men of the D tachment 
of the 1st West India Regiment, to assure the Honourable Court, 
that it will always be a source of great pride to them in the recol- 
lection, that their humble services during the late unfortunate Re- 
volt, should have obtained so flattering a mark of the Honourable 
Court's approbation. 

For myself personalty, I beg leave to offer my best thanks to the 
Honourable Court for the pleasing duty which they have imposed 



100 



Extract of a Letter from the Right Honourable Lord Ba THURSTy 
to His Excellency Major-General MURRAY, dated 

" Downing- Street, 23d October, 1&23. 
" Sir,— I have received your several Despatches as per margin* 
reciting the series of events that had occurred from the first intima* 
tion received by you on the 18th of August last, of a disposition to- 
wards insurrectionary movements, on the part of the Slave Popula- 
tion in the district of Mahaiea, and concluding with an account of 
the general termination of the Revolt, which had welded to the 
prompt and judicious measures of remonstrance and resistance 
adopted by you, and which you represent to have been so admira- 
bly enforced by the civil and military authorities under your com- 
mand. With respect to those measures, as far as at present you have 
made me acquainted with their details, I have laid them before His 
Majesty, and they have received his most gracious approbation ; 
which you will not fail to convey to the Officers, both civil and mili- 
tary, who have so distinguished themselves on this occasion." 



upon me, of communicating to the Regiment their Vote of Two 
Hundred Guineas to be laid out in Plate, for the use of the RegU 
mental Mess; in doing which, I shall avail myself of the earliest op- 
portunity. 

I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient humble Servant, 

T. W. STEWART, 
1st West India Regiment, 

To His Excellency Major- General Murray, ) 
Commanding H. M. Troops, and Lieut*- > 
Governor, $c. $c, $c. ) 

Fort Charlotte, St. Vincent, January 21, 1824. 
Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Ex- 
cellency's Letter of the 15th instant, enclosing the Resolutions of 
the Honourable Court of Policy. 

. It k impossible for me to express in adequate terms, the deep 
sense \ shall ever retain of the distinguished honour conferred on 
me — a distinction which J can never sufficiently appreciate. 

Permit me to intreat that your Excellency will accept my very 
prateful thanks, for the flattering manner in which you have been 
pleased to signify your kind intention of placing my conduct in a fa- 
vourable light before His Royal Highness the Commander-id Chief, 
for the consideration of His Majesty. 

I have the honour to remain, with the greatest respect, your Ex- 
cellency's most obedient humble Servant, 

JAMES BRADY, 
Lieutenant 21st Fusileers: 

To His F.rcellency Mojjt General Murray; $<f, $C. jc. 



Extract of a Letter from His Royal Highness the C0MM4NDER-IX*. 
CHIEF, to His Excellency Sir HENRY JVabde, Commander of the 
Forces in the Windward and Leeward Islands. 

u The second, transmitting copies of a further Despatch, also of a 
corresponding date, and of its enclosure, reporting to his Lordship 
the issue of this Revolt, so successfully and satisfactorily terminated 
by the judicious, prompt, and vigorous measures taken by Major- 
General Murray, and the exemplary zeal, discipline, and good con- 
duct of the 21st Regiment and other regular Troops and Militia, 
which entitle Officers and Men to the greatest credit, and will (I 
have no doubt) receive through the Secretary of State an assurance 
of His Majesty s gracious approbation." 

The Provisional Battalion, which circumstances now 
did not require they should be longer embodied^ receiv- 
ed the following honourable acknowledgment of its 
zealous exertion during the period in which it was em- 
bodied : — 

King's- House, Demerara, 1st March, 1824, 

Sir, — I have the honour to transmit to you a copy of the Minute 
of the Court of Policy, relative to the late Provisional Battalion of 
Demerara Militia, the contents of which, it affords me pleasure to 
communicate f >r your information, and that of the Gentlemen who 
served as Officers of th it Battalion during the period it was embodied. 

Whilst giving effect to t'ie wishes of the Honourable Court in this 
respect, I request you will acquaint the Officers of the late Provi- 
sional Battalion, that as the only means left me of rewarding them 
for their services, during the Revolt, it is not my intention to call 
«pon them to serve in the Militia, under the new Militia Act, in any 
capacity under that of Commissioned Officers. 

1 have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient Servant, 

(Signed) JOHN MURRAY, 

Major Frankland, Qc. §c. Sc. 



EXTRACFfrom the Minutes of the Proceedings of the Honour- 
able Court of Policy y of the Dependent Districts of Demerara 
and Essequebo, at its Ordinary Assembly, held at the Kings- 
House , Georgetown, Thursday, the \ 2(h of February, 1824. 
[after prayers.] 
The Court, previous to resuming the new Militia Act, proceeded 
to take under deliberation the proposition of His Excellency the 
Lieutenant-Governor, with respect to the keeping up the Provi- 
sional Battalion, under the command of Major Frankland. 

The Court, considering that the ranks of the Provisional Batta- 
lion, having been chiefly filled up during the late disturbed state of 
the Colony, with men whose usual avocations call them into the va- 
rious Districts of the Country? and can therefore only be considered 



102 



as transient persons, who are liable to do Militia duty in whatever 
part of it they happen to be employed, was, after most mature deli- 
beration, of opinion, that the present Population of Georgetown is 
inadequate, after furnishing the men for the Cavalry, Artillery, and 
Rifle Corps, to supply a sufficient number for two Battalions, and 
therefore now respectfully recommend to His Excellency the Com- 
mander-in-Chief to dispense with the services of the Provisional Bat- 
talion as a separate Corps, and to draft the men into the First Bat- 
talion, which appeared to require all the strength the Town popula- 
tion could aff jrd to complete its numbers, and render it fully efficient. 

The Court, at the same time, cannot withhold its acknowledg- 
ment of the exertions of Major Frankland, and of the zealous atten- 
tion paid by him to the Battalion, which was a main cause of its 
having attained a degree of discipline during the short period it was 
embodied, highly creditable bo'h to himself and the Corps, and the 
Court takes this opportunity of requesting His Excellency to be 
pleased to convey to that Officer, the particular expression of its 
highest consideration and warmest thanks for his indefatigable exer- 
tions, and to the Officers, non-commissioned Officers, and Men, its 
best thanks for their services during the late disturbed state of the 
Colony. 

[A Trite Extract.] 
(Signed) CHARLES WILD AY, Joint Dep. Sec. 

On this occasion, we cannot omit subjoining the fol- 
lowing handsome Addresses and Correspondence, which 
appeared in the newspapers of the day : — 

TO LIEUT.-COLONEL LEAHY, R. N. B. FUSILEERS. 

Sir, — We have been deputed, by the Inhabitants of the West Bank 
and Coast of the River Demeiara, to express to you the high sense 
of gratitude which, in common with ourselves, they entertain to- 
wards you, for your able and meritorious exertions in quelling the 
late daring Insurrection on the East Coast of this River, — your 
promptitude and decision there, having, in our opinion, averted a 
like caiamity from our District. As a proof of the sincerity of our 
gratitude, we request your acceptance of a Piece of Plate, value 
Three Hundred and Fifty Guineas. 

We beg leave to assure you, that, in quitting the Colony of De- 
merara, you will carry with you our fervent wishes for your health, 
prosperity, and happiness; and, should this now unfortunate Colony 
be again disturbed with similar Outrage and Revolt, we pray that an 
Officer of Colonel Leahy's spirit, may be at hand to defend us. m 

With every sentiment of esteem and respect, we have the honour 
to be, Sir, your very faithful Servants, 

(Signed) J. H. BOODE, 

JOHN NEWTON, 
JAMES ALLAN, 
W. W. KERN AN. 



I OS 



Dsmerara, \ 4th January, 1924. 
Gentlemen,— I feel at a loss to convey, in adequate terms, the 
high sense I entertain of your very flattering letter addressed to me 
this morning. 

The Gentlemen of the West Coast have been pleased to express 
their approbation of my conduct, during the late much-to-be-lament- 
ed Revolt — an approbation at all times flattering to a man acting in 
a public capacity, but particularly valuable to a Soldier employed 
upon such a painful service ; and I beg to assure them, that I shall 
ever feel proud of their good opinion. 

The Service now calls me to another station; but allow me to 
assure you, that it is with the most lively, the most unfeigned re- 
gret, that I quit the Colony of Demerara — a Colony which will ever 
possess my warmest wishes for its prosperity and happiness. 

The Piece of Plate voted by these Gentlemen,.! shall accept 
with gratitu ie and pleasure. 

To you, Gentlemen, who have been selected by your neighbours 
of the West Coast, to communicate their sentiments, I beg most par- 
ticularly to return my most sincere acknowledgments for the very 
handsome manner in which you have executed it. 

I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, your very obedient humble 
Servant, 

JOHN THOMAS LEAHY, 
Lieutenant- Colonel 2 1st Regt. R. N. B. Fusileers. 

TO LIEUTENANT BRADY, R. N. B. FUSILEERS. 

Dsmerara, 1 3th January, 1824. 
Dear Sir, — Whilst we present the enclosed Address to you, we 
have pleasure in availing ourselves of the opportunity which it af- 
fords us, of expressing the high esteem we entertain of your conduct 
as an Officer, and a Gentleman, during your command at Mahaica— - 
and we regret that the service should call you away from a quarter, 
where your attention to the security and interests of the inhabitants 
so eminently calls for our gratitude and thanks. 

With sincere good wishes for your future health and prosperity, 
we are, dear Sir, your obliged, and obedient Servants, 

(Signed) JOHN G. REED, 

ANDREW JACKSON, 
WILLIAM ERASER, 
WILLIAM M'KEAND. 



Demerara, 4th Gctober, 1823. 
Sir, — We, the undersigned Inhabitants of the United Colony of 
Demerara and Essequebo, have the highest satisfaction in expressing 
our sentiments of your prompt, judicious, and officer-like conduct, 
during the late Insurrection. 



As an acknowledgment of the service which you rendered on 
that occasion, we have taken the liberty of placing at your disposal, 
in the* hands of Messrs. Greenwood and Cox, the Sum of One 
Thousand Pounds ; and we earnestly hope for yosir speedy ad- 
vancetnent in a profession, the glory of which is upheld by the merit 
of ks Officers. 

[Here follows a list of forty-four Signatures, consisting principally 
of gentlemen residing on the East Coast of the Colony.] 

To Lieutenant Brady, Commanding Mahaica Post. 



TO LIEUTENANT- COLONEL GOODMAN, COMMANDANT 
GEORGETOWN MILITIA. 

De m era ra , 2 d Ja nuciry, 1 8 24. 

The undersigned Inhabitants of Georgetown and its vicinity, hav- 
ing witnessed the zea!, ability, and perseverance displayed by Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Goodman, in the discharge of his arduous duties as 
Commandant of the Georgetown Militia, during the continuance of 
Martial -Law, and being sensible how much his unwearied exertions 
have contributed to the preservation of good order and tranquillity 
in the Town, at a time when the Colony in general was in a state of 
the greatest alarm and danger — eagerly seize the opportunity n w 
afforded them to offer to the Lieutenant-Colonel their most cordial 
thanks for his assistance on t^at trying occasion. In acknowledging 
the benefits they have derived from the very active services of the 
Lieutenant-Colonel, the undersigned beg leave to add, that the man- 
ner in which these* services have been rendered, has, if possible, en- 
hanced their value, and impressed the undersigned with the liveliest 
sentiments of esteem and gratitude. As a token of these feelings, 
the undersigned request that the Lieutenant-Colonel will accept of 
Four Hundred Pounds Sterling, to be hud out in Plate ofhis own 
selection — and One Hundred Pounds Sterling, for the purchase of 
a Sword ; — both to be inscribed, " A Token of Gratitude, prestnttd 
u to Lieutenant Colonel GOODMAN, ( bmmanding the Georgetown 
u Brigade of Demerara Alii ilia, by the Inhabitants of Georgetown 
u and its vicinity, for his unwearied exertions in (he Public Service, 
u on and after the breaking out of the Insurrection on the 18th of 
" August, 1823." And they beg the Lieutenant-Colonel to be as- 
sured, that this small testimony of their regard, is accompanied by 
Queerest wishes that he may enjoy long life, happiness, and 
iiunour. 

Signed, &c. 

[Here follows a numerous list of Signatures.] 



Demerara, 13th February, 1824, 
Gi'nti f.men, — I can but imperfectly express what I feel, for the 
very distinguished honour you have »his day conferred upon me,. in 
the name of the Inhabitants of Georgetown and its vicinity. 



105 



The expression of their approbation of my conduct, would, under 
any circumstances, afford me the highest gratification ; but how can 
I sufficiently Appreciate that approbation, when offered under senti- 
ments towards me, so truly flattering to my feelings as a Military man? 

In returning you, Gentlemen, my sineerest thanks for the very 
handsome manner in which you have presented to me this Address 
from the Inhabitants of Georgetown and its vicinity, accompanied 
with such a token of their regard, I am fully impressed that it is to 
their unremitting assistance, and cordial co operation, I am indebted 
for any success which may h-ive attended my humble exertions in 
the late period of alarm and danger in this Colony • and it is left me 
to assure you, that I shall ever feel a pride in being at my post, 
whenever I can presume to flatter myself that my services can be in 
any manner directed to the interests or welfare of those I so deeply 
respect and esteem. — With great sincerity^ I have the honour to 
subscribe myself Gentlemen, 

Your verv obedient Servant, 

S, A. GOODMAN. 

to 

Henry Tulloh, 
J. H. Albouy, 
Wm. Leach, 
G. X Goppy, 

TO HIS HONOR PPwESIDEHT WHAy?* 

Demerara, 22d January, 1824. 
The undersigned Inhabitants of this Colony, consider that they 
are greatly indebted to His Honor President Wray, for the very 
handsome manner in which he came forward, on the breaking out of 
the late Rebellion, to give his assistance in a military capacity. 

It is their opinion that the disinterested services of His Honor # 
and his unremitting attention to the Public Business, during the con- 
tinuation of Martial -Law, have been highly beneficial to the Colo- 
ny, and justly entitle him to the gratitude of the community at large. 
They now, therefore, beg leave to oifer to His Honor their sincere 
thanks for his conduct on the unhappy occasion alluded to, which 
they shall ever hold in gra'eful remembrance; and, at the same time, 
they request His Honor to be assured of their cordial wishes /or hk 
health and happiness. 

Signed, &c. 
[Here follows a numerous list of Signatures.^ 

Presidency, 14th February, 1824. 
Gentlemen, — I feel much gratified that the course of conduct I 
adopted during the late dangerous Revolt, has been viewed wit 
probation by so highly respectable a portion bt the Inhabitants of 
this Colony. 



^.Esquires. 



106 



Amidst the zealous and universal sacrifice ©f personal comfort as 
well as of property, I could not feel satisfied, that I shoujdbe dis- 
charging the duty I owe to the Colony, in remaining, during the ne- 
cessary suspension of the ordinary business of the Court of Justice, 
ilie only unemployed individual in the community. 

The commission, which, with the concurrence of his Excellency 
the Lieutenant-Governor, I accepted, increased by means of being 
useful to the public, and the particular duties which it imposed on 
me, having now ceased, I feel myself justified in receiving your 
thanks, and in expressing my obligations for the flattering terms in 
wh|ch you have conveyed then]. 

I have the honour to remain, Gentlemen, your very obedient 
Servant, 

CHARLES WRAY. 

In the London Gazette of January 6th, 1824, it hav- 
ing been announced that His Majesty had been pleased 
to appoint to the Government of the United Colony of 
Deinerara and Essequebo, Major-General Sir Benjamin- 
1)' Urban *, the principal Inhabitants of the same, ex- 
pressed their sense of Major- General Murray's admi- 
nistration in the following terms : — 

ADDRESS TO MAJOR-GENERAL MURRAY. 

May it please your Excellency, 

Wef have been Deputed by our Fellow -Colonists, whose name* 
appear along with our own to this Address, to present the same to 
your Excellency, and are happy in having the opportunity of exhi- 
biting to your Excellency, this testimony of esteem and regard. en* 
tertah.ed for you by the Inhabitants generally. 

To which His Excellency replied — 
Gentlemen, my esteemed and valued Friends, 

As you have done me the honour of presenting the Address of 
the Inhabitants of the United Colony, upon the occasion of my ap- 
proaching departure, I hope you will permit me to avail myself of 
the same channel, to communicate my acknowledgments in return. 



* Sir Benjamin D'Urban arrived in Demerara, on Saturday, the 
24th April, from Antigua, (where he Lad been for some time Jo* 
pernor,) and, on the Monday following, took over the Government 

in due form. 

On the fcth of May, Major-Genera) Murray embarked for Lond 
-|* James Johnstone, J. H. Boode, Thomas Dougan, J. G. Reid, 
C. Macrae, George Bagot, John Newton, John Douglas, Thomas 

Mcm burn. 



iO? 

I beg you to be assured that the flattering expressions the Address 
•con'ains are greatly enhanced in my estimation, by the selection 
made of such distinguished Gentlemen to convey them to me. 



Demerara and Essequebo, 23d February, 1824. 

Sir.— We have received with much regret the announcement of 
your Excellency's recai from the Government of this Colony. 

We could have wished the opportunity thus afforded u^ of record- 
ing the sentiments with which we are impressed, upon the occasion 
of your Excellency's departure, after a residence amongst us of eie*- 
ven years, had been deferred to a period more auspicious to the Co- 
lonial interests. 

in memorial of the happy suppression of the late Revolt, under 
jour Ex ellericy's auspices, and as a token of our thanks for the 
able manner in which you have met the perilous circumstances of 
the times, we request to present you with a Service of Plate, va- 
lue Twelve Hundred Guineas, testifying, at the same tin!e, our 
sense of the happiness we have experienced under your Excellency's 
administration of the Government f this Colony, for a series of 
years, and our earnest hopes for your future prosperity >md happiness. 

We have the honour to be, Sir, your Excellency's most obedient 
Servants, ' 

' Signed, &c. 

[Here fo'iows a very numerous list of Signatures.] 
To His Excellency Major-General Murray, ) 
Lieutenant-Governor, c^c* §c. «~c. ) 

JTivg's- House, Demerara, 13th March, 1824. 

Gentlemen, — I request you will accept my acknowledgments 
for the Address y >u have honoured me with, and the expression of 
your regret at my approaching departure from this Colony. 

Although the state of my health and other considerations render 
-retirement, and the benefit of European climate extremely desirable 
to me, yet had it rested with myself, 1 certainly sh nld not have 
chosen a moment like the present to yield up the trust of a Govern- 
ment, which it had been my fortune to administer during so many 
years of tranquil security. 

The Service of Plate, your kindness has induced you to present 
to me, I accept as a memorial of our having passed together a com- 
mon danger, in which your cordial co operation rendered my duty 
com para lively light. 

Your expression of happiness, enjoyed during my Government, is 
grateful to my feelings, as realizing one great object of my adminis- 
tration. ; 
- That Providence may dispel the dangers and difficulties with 
which y6u are at present surrounded, and that nothing may in fu- 
ture occur to obstruct the prosperity of these settlements, will ever 
be amongst the most earnest wishes of my heart. 

I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, your most obedient and 
humble Servant, > 

- JOHN MURRAY 



108 



TO ALEXANDER SIMPSON, ESQ. MAJOR- COMMAND ANT OF 
THE DEMERAKA CAVALRY. 

Demerara, lOth August* 18*24. 

? IRi — A numerous body of the Inhabitants of this United Colony, 
desirous of presenting you with a pledge of their respect and es- 
teem, and to express the high sense they entertain of the gallantry 
and enterprise winch so eminently distinguished your conduct on the 
breaking out, and during the Insurrection in August last, request 
your acceptance of a Pu ck of Plate, value Five Hundred Guineas, 
as a lasting testimony of their gratitude for the eminent services ren- 
dered by you on that eventful occasion. 

We feel great personal satisfaction in being charged with this 
communication of the sentiments of our fellow-colonists, and re- 
quest to add our own sincere wishes for your future welfare and 
h . piness.— We La , 2 the honour to remain, Sir, your most obedient 
bumble Servants, 

(Signed) T. FRANKLAND, 

A. GALLAWAY, 
J. H. H. HOLMES, 
J. D. HALEY, 
GEORGE CAUTY, 
GEORGE BUCHANAN, 
GEORGE RAINY, 
W. LEACH. 
[Here follows a very numerous list of Signatures.] 



To Major jll. EJTA X D BR SlMPSbtf, \ 

Comd^. JJerturqra Cavalry 3 



Georgetown, 29d August, 1894. 
Gentlemen,— I beg, in reply to the communication you have 
banded me, to offer my sincere gratitude for the honour clone me, by 
my fellow -colonists, in presenting me with a Piece of Plate for my 
services at, and during the Insurrection which broke out in this 
Colony in August last, -an honour which I could not have expected, 
from the. humble service I had in my power to render the country, 
on that occasion; and be assured that their mark of the approba- 
tion and kind token of good will towards me, by those whose favour 
I value beyond the smiles of Princes, (my fellow-colonists), I shall 
always consider as an event in my life, in which I shall feel the 
most proud, 

I beg further to express, that I am duly sensible of the honour 
done me in the election of so respectable a Committee of Gentle- 
men, to present me with the address which I now reply to. 

' (Signed) ALEXANDER SIMPSON. 



To 



T. Fh ankt.a \n, W. Leach, "\ 

J. H H. HOUW, A. GaU.AWAY, J J, 

J. D. Haley, Geo. Rainy, r 1 

G. BncHANAN, Geo, Cauty. J 



109 



LIST OF THE INSURGENT NEGROES 

WIio were Tried by Court - Martial, held at the Colony- 
House, Georgetown, with their Sentences, Sfc. 

Those marked thus [*], are still in confinement at the Colony 
Jail— 9th September 1824. 

This mark [f ], points out those Insurgents who were decapitated, 
after being taken down from the gallows. Their heads were affixed 
on poles within the Fort. 



Name. 

Attilla, - - of - - 
Adonis*, - - - 
April*, - - - - 
Austin, - - - - 

work-house 
Alexander, - - - 
Achilles, - - - 

Billy f, - - - - 
Beffaneyf, - - - 
Britain, - - - - 
Cudjoe*, - - 
Cobus*, - - - 
Cato, (free,) - - 
Cudjoe, - - - - 
work-house 
Damas, - - - 
Daniel, - - - - 
Dick, - - - - 
David*, - - - - 
Duke*, - - - - 
David, - - - - 

Ellick, alias Allick +, 
Edward, - - - - 
Fingal, - • » • 
France -f*, - - - 
Frank, 



Plantation, 

Plaisance, - - - 
- do. « - - - 
La Bonne Intention, 
Cove, - - - - 
two years. 
Lusignan, - » 
Beterverwagting, 
Ann*s Grove, - - 
Success - - - - 

do. - - - - 
Porter's Hope, - - 
Beterverwagting, - 
Success - - - - 
Lusignan, - - - 
for life. 
Plaisance, - - - 
Foulis, - - - - 
Success, - - - - 
La Bonne Intention, 
Clonbrook, - - - 
Beterverwagting 
Good Hope, - - 
Coldingen, - - - 
Triumph, - - - 

do. 

Porter's Hope, 
Success, - • - « 



Sentence 

Death, executed. 

do. respited. 
Under sentence. 
Flogged, and in the 

do. up the Coast, 
Death, in chains. 

do. executed. 

do. executed. 

do. respited. 

do. respited. 
Under sentence. 
Banishment. 
Flogged, and in the 

Death, executed. 

do. do. 
Acquitted. 
Under sentence. 
Death, respited. 

do. do. 

do. executed. 

do. do. 
Ftogged on the estate, 
do. 

Death, executed. 

Flogged on thg pstata 



Hatne. 

Field, - of . - 

work-house two years, 



110 

Plantation. 

Clonbrook, . 



Gilbert* 
George Morrison § t - 
Harry, .... 

Harry f, - . - . 
Hugh, alias Few, 



Hamilton, 
Ingliss, - 
Jemmy, 
Jessamin, 



the plantation. 



Paradise, « - 
En more, - - 
Good Hope, - 
Triumph, 
Noot en Zuyl, 



Success, - - . 
Foulis, .... 
- Bachelor's Adventure, 
Success, - - _ 



work-house for life 

do. - - - . „ 

La Bonne Intention, 
Bachelor's Adventure, 
Chateau Margo, - 



Jock*, 

Jack, - . _ _ 

Kmsale*, - . - 
Kett, alias Kate, - 

confinement. 



Lonis, 
Lin dor, 
Louis, 



Murphy, 

Mercury, ... 
Maximilian, 
Natty, ... 
Nelson, - - - , 
Nelson*, - - . 
Pickle f, . , 

Profit*, - - . 
Philip*, . . . 
Phi'ip, . . . 
Paul, - . . . 
Primo*, - - - 
Paris, - - - 
Quintnsf, - - 
Quarainaf, - - . 
Ouabino, - - - 

in chains. 
Quamina*, • - , 
Onacco*, - • - 
Quacco*, - - . 
Ralph* ... 
vA\\n William*. 



- - - - Plaisance, - - - . 
" " ~ - La Bonne Intention, 

- - - - Porter's Hope, - - 
work -house one year. 

Foulis, - - _ . 
En more, ... 
Success, - 
Enterprise, ~ - - 
Golden Grove, - - 
New Orange Nassau, 
La Bonne Intention, 
do. ... 
do. 

Foulis, - - _ . 
Friendship, - - - 
Chateau Margo, - - 
Good Hope, - - 
Beterverwagting, 
Noot en Zuyl, t - 
Chateau Margo, - . 



Haslinton, - - 
Success, - - 
Chateau Margo, 
Success, - - 
Coldingen, - - 



Sentence. 
Flogged, and in the 

Death, respited. 
500 lashes, do. 
Death, executed. 

do. do. 
Released, and sent to 

Death, executed. 

do. respited. 

d >. in chains. 
Flogged, and in the 

Death, respited. 
Released. 
Death, respited. 
Two months' solitary 

Death, executed. 

do. in chains. 
Flogged, and in the 

Death, executed. 
700 lashes. 
300 do. 

Death, executed. 

do. do. 

do. respited. 

do. executed. 
Under sentence. 

do. do. 
Death, executed. 

do. in chains. 

do. respited. 

do. in chains. 

do. executed. 

do. executed. 
1000 lashes, & worked 

Death, respited. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 
Under sentence. 



§.G,orgc Morrison was sick at the time when the punishment was to 
be mflicted, and he was reprieved by his Excellency the Governor, being 
a youth ol only 10 or 17 years of age. 1 S 



ill 



Name ' Plantation. c . 

q • : i A Sentence. 

Soutman* - - . R Pfp ' ' ~. " " do - m chains, 
Smith*-'- . . S^./. J. respited. 

Sammy, .... r „„- * " " 3°o lashes, respited. 

vvork-houseforse?;.™; " " Fio Sg ed > and the 
WbE?* . !0i '' S A ' i -„ture, Death, in chain, 

est ' ' ' " " flog g edontheestate.[j 

tiySS; oT«h™4 b /,v a o 1 ? C r hment °«-*«". at Eve. 

his jsirs^Sf ?XTei Fw ^ absconded 

of August, 1823, last n?°t °',t • • b ° Ut * he m S ht of Monday, the 18th 

East ELi of ? '"f**? Ne ^ s - ^ 

^^^^^ H S^i ^ sel . ices in 

|t Early on the morning of the «n, xr„ u 
and forty insurgent Ne-roe were P t' ^ embe >V 1823, between thirty 
Coast, to witnesTthe ncg^Wof ten rX Jail '° the Ea " 

were ^vardsd^ 

November last as a guide from cZl A ^Wr*"' in ,he ™»* of 
to show bin, where the rebel RicC ? wa s ' lst ff tln °''a Regiment, 
left only two days before.-The Pri l e n ^T'^' a ? d wbom he h: <* 
him to Richard's camo hi,t fi; I *\ ls 0nei Ported out the tract, and led 
thing in tovaJL^iriJ^^^--?* ™soner did ev y 
denee adds, that Trim was X„ , ? J,ecuon R "*ard had taken—Evil 
and that havered "hiT n£ thToST • ° ^ of Chad , 

from the hush. ° fficer s cust ody again on his return 



112 



EXPLANATION OF LOCAL TERMS, 

OCCURRING IN THIS WORK. 



Bush— A common term in Demerara for forest or wood, from the 

Dutch word bosch. 
Bush-rope— A kind of extraneous vegetation that hangs from the 

trees in the forest, resembling rope. 
Bush-land— Land not cleared or cultivated. 

Bush Expedition— A party of Militia joined with a body of Indians: 
and attendant Slaves, in search of runaway Negroes. 

Bush —Heavy matted. T ees and shrubs in the forest intimately 
conjoined by extraneous vegetation, such as bush rope, creeping 
plants, ice. m . 

Buck— A general term in Demerara for the Indians of Guiana. 

Buck fa— Negro term for a white man or woman. 

Boat Captain— One who commands any Colony craft, generally a 
head negro on a plantation, and ranks with a head-driver, enjoy- 
ing privileges accordingly* 

BouHng house— The building on a sugar estate, in which are general- 
ly two set> of b »ilers, for boiling the juice of the sugar-cane and 
producin'i sugar. m 1 

Curing-honse—A place in which the sugar (after being put into tne 
hogsheads) remains, until the molasses is sufficiently drained from' 
it, and fit for heading up. 

Corial or Creawl—A small canoe in much use by the Negroes and 
Indians. 

Cotton -piece— Coffee-piece— Cane -piece— The draining by trenches- 
divides the cultivation into various lots of land, which are gene- 
rally termed pieces, though sometimes fields. 

Driver— A Negro overseer whu superintends the Negroes while at 
work— there i< also a head driver, who has generally much influ- 
ence over the gang, and on whom much reliance is placed by trie- 
Manager. . 

Droghery—h piece of ground attached to a cotton or coffee logie, 
cov ered with tiles or bricks, for the purpose of drying the produce, 
or curing it in the sun. 

J)am— An embankment of earth that keeps out the water from an 
estate. 

F~ont-dam— Defends an estate from the sea or the river. 

Back -dam -Protects an estate from the water accumulated in the 
bush during the rainy season. 

Side -dams Arc boundaries of adjoining estates. 

Fiscal— Attorney-General and Head- Cilicer of Police; takes rank 
after the President of Justice. 

Qang— A term much in use for a b >dy of working Negroes. Exam- 
ple— the women gang, the men gang, the cietfie gaug. 



113 



Task -gang — A body of Negroes belonging to an individual, who 
hires them generally by the job. 

Gallery — To the houses in Demerara are generally attached a roofed 
balcony, both at the front and back of the house, with steps lead- 
ing thereto, and which is termed a galleiy. 

Hammocks — Are of extensive use in Demerara when travelling, par- 
ticularly with the Indians, who make them of cotton, silk-grass, 
and other materials. 

Z*ogie-~A general term for a large building on a plantation, in which 
the cotton, coffee, and megas are stored. 

Me gas —The sugar-cane after passing through the mill, deprived of 
its juice, and dried in the logie, forming excellent fuel for heating 
the eoppers, in which the cane liquor is boiled* 

Massa — Missee — Negro words for master and mistress, applied in- 
discriminately even to strangers they are not at all acquainted 
with. 

Matty — Negro term for friend or particular acquaintance. 

Mi nap — An Indian word for young bush or under-wood. 

Neger- — A word often used for Negro by Creoles and others. 

Negro houses — A range of huts, comfortably constructed, for the re- 
sidence of field Negroes. 

Overseer-— A white man under the Manager, who superintends the 
Negroes at work in the field, and about the buildings. The law 
requires one white man to every 75 Slaves. " 

Pegass — Rotten vegetable matter, found in some parts of the bush 
ten or twelve feet deep above the soil. 

Pack-all — A very convenient article made by the Bucks, for holding 
clothes and other articles — perfectly water tight— they are gene- 
rally ornamented with much taste, and is undoubtedly the most 
ingenious article manufactured by the Indians. 

Pickaniny — Negro term for an infant. 

Plantain -lualk — A piece of ground generally aback of an estate, al- 
lotted for the growth of the plantain, which forms the principal 
food of the Negroes in Demerara. 
* Bazar- grass™ A species of grass growing in the woods, barbod like a 
saw, cuts and adheres to the legs. 

Rood or Rod —A Dutch measure consisting of 12 feet — one mile is 
equal to 420 rods. 

Stocks— In every sick house or hospital on an estate, are stocks for 
confining the feet when Negroes have sores — by which means 

_ they are sooner cured. Confinement in the stocks is also resorted 
to as a mode of punishment. 

Shell — On many plantations a conch shell is blown for the gang to 
turn out or leave off work — a part of the smaller end is beaten off, 
and makes an opening, to which the mouth is applied for the 
purpose of sounding it. Its tones are rather harmonious than 
otherwise. 

Side-line — Same as side dam. 

Stelling — A common term in Demerara for a pier or quay, extend- 
ing some length from the banks of the river to low water mark— 



114 



being very convenient for the landing of merchandise and passen- 
gers— they are entirely built of timber. 
Shipping-House— A small building by the water-side, for containing 
the produce, until ready to be shipped on board the sloop or 
schooner. 

Sic, r c- House— On every plantation in Demerara there is an hospital 
for the Slaves. It is divided into different apartments for the pro- 
per accommodation of the patients. On many estates there are 
also lying-in hospitals, with an attendant midwife [termed the 
grannee], and nurses. The hospital is sometimes the most ex- 
tensive building on an estate— to which is often attached a large 
kitchen, wash-house, with numerous attendants. A medical 
practitioner attends every other day, and at all hours when sent 
for. ^ 

The hospitals on plantations Providence and Nism el; Demerara 
River, and plantation Hope, West Coast of Essequebo, are con- 
spicuous for their size and accommodation. 

Savanna — Piece of land without wood, which, in wet weather, is 
either a swamp or a lake — and in very dry weather, a meadow. 

Sojrie—A Negro and Buck term for a dram of spirits. 

Shingles — Flat pieces of wood, serving as tiles for the roofing of 
houses. 

Trash — The leaves, refuse, &c. of the sugar cane. 

Trenches — Very smalL canals of water, intersecting the cultivation. 
Those adjoining the side-dams are generally wider than the others. 

Watch - House— Near to the plantain-walks are generally small 
thatched huts, in which a Negro resides, for the purpose of pro- 
tecting the property. During the night time many of the gang 
turn out and do duty in rotation as watchmen, particularly about 
the buildings. 

Water-Path— The path continuing from alongside the canal of an- 
estate into the bush. 



115 



DESCRIPTION OF THE PLATES. 



Plate dftrst, 

Is a Map of that part of the Colony of Demerara, to which the 
Insurrection was confined — representing the Estates on the East 
Coast of the River, with other Plantations adjoining. For the par- 
pose of avoiding that confusion which so often arises from too many 
references, the Plantations are alternately numbered, and are as 
follows 

PLANTATIONS ON THE COAST, FROM FORT WIL- 
LIAM FREDERICK TO MAHAICA CREEK. 



1 Thomas 

2 Kitty 

3 Blygezight 

4 Bel Air 

5 Sophia 

6 Leliendaal 

7 Pattensen 

8 Turkey en and Henrietta 

9 Cuming's Lodge 

10 Industry 

11 Wittenburg 

12 Le Reduit 

13 Goede Verwagting 

14 Plaisance 

15 Beeter Hoop 

16 Vryheid's Lust 

17 Brothers 

18 Montrose 

19 Felicity 

20 Le Resouvenir 

21 Success 

22 Chateau Margo 

23 La Bonne Intention 

24 Beeter Verwagting 

25 Triumph 

26 Mon Repos 

27 Eendragt 

28 Good Hope 

29 Two Friends and Nog Eens 

30 Lusignan 

31 Annandale 

32 La Reconnoissance 
S3 New Orange Nassau 



34 Friendship 

35 Vigilance 

36 Strathspey 

37 Coldingen 

38 Nonpareil 

39 Enterprise 

40 Elizabeth Hall 

41 Bachelor's Adventure 

42 Paradise 

43 Foulis 

44 Porter's Hope 

45 Enrnore 

46 Hasiington 

47 Golden Grove 

48 Nabaclis 

49 John 

50 Cove 

51 Craig Miln 

52 Northbrook 

53 Bellefield 

54 Noot en Zuyl 

55 Lowlands 

56 Hope 

57 Duchfour 

58 Ann's Grove 

59 Clonbrook 

60 Beehive 

61 Greenfield 

62 Orange Nassau 

63 Grove 

64 Unity 

65 Lancaster, 



116 



PLANTATIONS ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE RIVER. 

1 1 Providence 

12 Herstelling 

13 Farm 



1 

2 
3 
? 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 



Vlissmgen 
Stabroek 
Werk en Rust 
Le Repentir 
La Penitence 
Ruimveld 
Houston 
Rome 
Vclserhofd 
Peter's Hall 



14 Co vent Garden 

1 5 Little Diamond 

16 Great Diamond 

17 Golden Grove 

18 Success 

19 New Hope 

20 Friendship. 



PLANTATIONS ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE RIVER. 



La Grange 
Mindenburg 
Nismes 

24 Toevlugt 

25 La Retraite 
Belle Vue 



21 

22 
23 



26 



PLANTATIONS 



Arcadia 

Mokka 

Prosperiteyt 

Twe Vriendeo 

Woerden 

Utrecht 

Maria Anna 



27 Good Intert 

28 Wales 

29 Jonge Rachael and Patientia 

30 Vriesiand 

31 Lauientia Catharina 

32 Vive la Force. 

UP CANAL No. 3. 

( 8 Hagg's Bosch 
9 Tyd en Vlyt 

10 Perseverance 

11 Henrv 

12 Profit 

13 Sagepond. 



The double line extending along the Coast, represents the pub- 
lic road. It continues to the neighbouring Colony of Berbice— and, 
on the East side of the River, the road is extended to nearly 20 miles. 

The small dotted lines on the Coast between some of the Planta- 
tions, denote the Company Canals. 

In 1815, it was in contemplation to form a canal from George- 
town to Mahaica Creek ; for which purpose a survey was taken by 
Mr. Joseph Hadfie'd, an eminent Surveyor, to whose liberality the 
Author has been indebted for considerable information. 

The continuation of the projected canal from the Bush to George- 
town, is represented by the dotted line continuing aback of the 
River estates, and proceeding on between the plantations Vlissingen 
and Stabroek, [ 1 & 2 .] 

The serpentine line, continuing from A [the Fort], round to La 
Penitence [ 5], points out the boundaries of Georgetown. 

The dot on the public read at plantation Wittenburg [No. 11], is 
the point where Mr. Van Waterschoudt was accidentlv shot in the leg. 

1 be »mal] crosses by the public road, point out where the rebels, 
or their heads, are exhibited, in terrorem. 

On plantation Plaisance [14] is the head of Attilla. 



117 

On plantation Success [21] are the bodies of Quamina and Ri- 
chard in chains. 

On plantation La Bonne Intention [23] the body of Lindor. 

On plantation Beterverwagting [24] is Achilles. 

On plantation Annandale [31] is Sandy. 

On plantation New Orange Nassau [33] two heads. 

On plantation Friendship [34] the body of Paul hangs in chains. 

On plantation Bachelor's Adventure [41] Telemaclius and Jemmy 
on one jibbet, 

On plantation Nabaclis [48] are the heads of Calib and S;o?ne. 

The black squares point out the three Military Posts or Depots- 
established on the Coast during the insarrection, viz, : on plantation 
Felicity [19], Lusignan [30], and Nabaclis [.4B]. On Le Reduit 
[12], at the residence of Alexander Simpson, Esq., were established 
the head-quarters of the Cavalry, vide [T] in the Map. 

The references on the Map are explained in this Narrative, ex- 
cepting the following— 

A. Fort William Frederick. 

H. The place were Courabana Crock was formerly. 
O. Point Spirit. 

L. The old Beacon, now in ruin. 

G. Mahaica Creek. $ ?■ ™ e draw-b id R e at Clonbrook. 
-r* rp */r u • n i \ b. 1 ne do. at Beehive. 
F, I ne Mahaica Canal. ) rp, T , . .,. , 

C c. lne large do. on tne public road. 

Y. The Military Post. 

K. Back of Estates situated on Mahaica Creek. 
R. Hobaboe Creek. 

iE. Oeremahoeny Creek, being a branch of the Mahaica Creek. 



folate &tr4it* f 

Represents the retreat of Lieutenant Bradjv on the South dam 

of the Mahaica CanaU 

On the draw-bridge in the fore ground, the Lieutenant halted 
previous to the arrival of the Rebels. He is represented in the 
midst of his little par y when opposite the dwelling-house of planta- 
tation Clonbrook--- Irs men were in their fatigue-dress, and himself 
in a blue surtout, and cap covered with oilskin, having bis sword, 
unsheathed under his left arm. The ring leade< , Prince, with a bhick 
flag, is rallying on the Insurgents to proceed up the North dam, for 
the purpose of cutting off the retreat of the military ; to obtain 
which object, many of the Rebels were seen making their way 
through the coffee-piece and trench. Behind the draw bridge, is seen 
part of the buildings of Clonbrook ; that on the right^ at the extre- 
mity of the design, is the hospital. That building, the roof of which 
is partly hidden by a large tree, is the dwelling-house; adjoining to 
which, are four cabbage trees, and a coco »-nut tree, The roof of 
the hnilding seen above the trees in the distance, and intersected by 
a cabbage tree, is the dwelling-house of plantation Beehive ; oppo- 



IIS 



♦!£Mhe2iUdlf' W ' bridge ' - ac!ng the ^ie-walk of that es. 
ceived in the view, ,s that of Greenfield, and new to i annarentN 

hu/k oV u? V ( 7r S . tl,ken ? the 21St of September, 1823, from the 
S£ .u2i:iTI„& G ,° o n ve the CaMl ^ * ** Stance 
far^ e rf^ e ![ eCtand a PP eara »ee of the mob of Insurgents as 

en . -W and P v^nt PP ? S S3W the drawin § Prions to its being 
re K «ent£:n&^ «*~ ^ *««*■ * the correct 



A view of the Military Post at Mahaica 
toTts 1 Lo U Tb. ,S (ake " ° n the dam b >' theside of Creek, and near 



offtfSm Vi Sj' S ! ° bstrUCted b ? ^ risi "S bllsh at tho 



pate tfouvtlt, 

presents the rencontre at Bachelor's Adventure 

direction on the nK' M , ""'bush. In an opposite 

In the OMbeek 5Sf . , c f tate i> represents Colonel Leahy. 

Rife Corps. In the for. ■ ™ , n i glance, sttuated above the 

«s dam, from i^5^^R^^^ h ?^^P»^ *»* 

piece, while others arr IvL ! . , a . rC 1 1,sh,:1 ;' »"*<> the cotton- 

» . otners arc lying wounded and dead upon the dain. 



119 



\mtt mm, 

Represents the Colonial Armoury, or Guard -House of George- 
town, and the adjacent buildings. 

. This, vie w was saken from the residence of the Civil Commissary^ 
Ho B. Eraser, Esq., and represents the First Battalion of the Deme- 
rara Militia and the Artillery Corps at parade. 

The Guard- House, recently constructed, may be considered the 
only building in Georgetown p assessing a correct architectural cha- 
racter, - it being only of late occurrence, that the Colony has had 
the advantage of a Colonial Architect ; the situation of which, is at 
present filled by James Hacket, Esq., whose well known professional 
talents requires no comment. The large building in the centre of 
the view, and nearly behind the Guard-House, is the Colony-House 
where the Court-Martial was held. 



Pate Btiyth 

The Provisional Battalion on parade; in the back-ground is the 
Scots' Church which supplied the place of barracks to a large body* 
of men. On the left of the design, is the residence of H. B. Eraser, 
Esq., from whence the view of Plate 5 was taken. Between the 
trees is partly discerned the Court of Justice ; and, on the right of 
the fare-ground, is part of the Guard-House. 



Pate £rimitfc 

The Demerara Troop of Cavalry, on the muster ground near to 
the Royal Hotel— in the distance is seen the Colony-House, Guard- 
House, and Scots' Church. 



Pate m&Wj, 

Muster of the Rifle Corps, near to the residence of James Ro- 
bertson, Esq. On the right, is a partial view of St. George's Church ; 
next to which, is the Mason's Lodge. 

Plate mutlj, 

Represents the Marine Battalion under arms, at their quarters in 
Cumingsburgh. 

plate &tnt% 

Represents a party of the Bucks or Indians, with their Quarter- 
Master-General reviewing them. In his right hand, in lieu of a 
sword, he holds an Indian club. On the right of the fore-ground, 
is an Indian chief and his family. The back-ground represents the 



120 



Fort, where is seen the red flag flying, ten heads of the Rebels ele- 
vated on lofty poles, and the j bbet erected forthe ring-leader Paris., 
Th ■ high building on the right, is the Light-House; on the top of 
which is placed a staff for signals. 

This view was taken froin the residence of William Jeffery, Esq., 
Dear to Kingston Stelling. 



Plate eiefaentS, 

'Represents the execution of the Rebels on the Parade Ground in 

Cumingsburgh. 

This view was taken from the look-out of the residence of Mr. 
Bommell. In the distance may be distinguished the red flag at the 
Fort, and also the Light-House. The large building on the left of 
the Parade Ground, was the residence and Chapel of Elliott, the 

Missionary. 



Five of the Culprits in chains, as they appeared on the 20th of 

September, 182. £ *. 

1st, Quarnina, on plantation Success. 
2d, Ljudor, on La Bonne Intention. 

3d, Paul, on the Friendship, and two heads at the middle-walk of 
plantation New Orange Nassau. 

4th, Telemachus and Jemmy, on Bachelor's Adventure. 



pfote C£trtttttt$, 

Containing four Plans ; the -references to which are explained in 
the Narrative. 



The Plates above referred to, will, it is hoped, convey a tolerable 
idea of the subjects they are intended t > illustrate ; but the Author 
may be pardoned for observ ing, that in consequence of the great 
many difficulties to which an artist is subject in this Country in pre- 
paring his designs for the press, it requires an unusual share of per- 
severance and trouble to bring out any thing in a style correspond- 
ing to bis wishes. In England, the different branches of art are exe- 
cuted by distinct and separate individuals ; but here, the Author has 
Decessariljf been his own draughtsman — his own engraver — his own 
printer — and, in a great measure, his own copper-smith. Being the 
first and only person, who introduced engraving and copper-plate 
printing in Deinerara, he is not without sanguine hopes, that all im- 
perfection*, under these circumstances, will be kindly overlooked, 



121 



ERRATA. 



Page 21. — Third line from note at bottom, after the words, This 
Battalion necessarily varied, add in force. 

— 32. — Note, 18 line from bottom, for this view, read the view. 

— 32. — Tenth line from bottom, for Mr. M'Kean, read Mr. 
Keane. 

— 45. — Last line but one, after Main Guard, add of the Pro- 
visional Battalion. 

— 57. — Line 17, for three miles, read four miles. 

— 64. — Note, fifth line third paragraph, for Commissary-Gone- 
ral, read Quarter- Afas'er-Geneml. 

— 73. — Since this Work went to press, the Author has reason 
to believe, that the statement in this page, with reference to the 
negro Sandy, at the place of execution, is not quite correct. He 
has been informed, that the only words used by that malefactor, im- 
mediatei} 7 previous to his being thrown off, were declaratory of his 
confidence in the innocence of Smith, the Missionary. He was not 
prevented (as insinuated in the passage above alluded to) by the Mi- 
nister in attendance, from making any disclosures or accusations to 
which he might have had a mind. The negro Sandy was executed 
aback of plantation Annandale, and not Nonpareil, as stated in page 
72, that being the estate to which he belonged. It was on the An- 
nandale that he murdered the watchman, Peter, a negro belonging 
to the estate, and where the body of Sandy now hangs in chains. 

— 82. — In this page, the following note (from Mr. Hilhouse), 
ought to have been inserted: — 

The Indians having ascertained that the Negroes had returned to the 
plantations, and having exhausted their provisions, insisted on returning 
also, notwithstanding the most strenuous efforts of their Commanders, 
to induce them to accompany the Militia further. 

The party, after travelling in a North-East direction for three or 
four hours, struck off in the direction of the estates on the East 
Coast, and came out of the bush at the windward side-line of plan- 
tation Paradise. 

— 83.— Second line of second paragraph, for taken, read un- 
dertaken. 

— $6.— Second line of second paragraph, for Masoenery Creek, 
read Massaroony River. 



M 



122 



SUBSCRIBERS' NAMES. 



Albouy, J. H.— 2 Copies. 
Armstrong, W. J. 
Adams, Charles 
Abbott, John G. 
Arnott, R. 

Allan, , 8 Copies. 

Armstrong, 

Aikman, Alexander— 12 Copies. 

Amick, F. 

Ball, Andrew F. 

Beh rends, C. 

Brown, J. R. 

Bone, A. 

Baker, Geo. 

Brennand, O. 

Brady, Lieut. 21st Fusileers. 

Blake, T. 

B uium ell, Wra, 

B >oker, Geo. — 2 Copies. 

Barry, Thos. E. 

Bischop, J. P. 

Bogle, G. M. 

Bach, U. J. F. 

Barton, John 

Bagot, Thos.— 2 Copies. 

Bogles, King, and Co. 

Buchanan, James 

Bischop, J. 

Beard, His Excellency Governor 

— 2 Copies. 
Bagot, J. C. 
Baynes, B. H. 
Bommell, John 
Boode, J. H. — 3 Copies. 
Brown, Thos. 
Butcher. R. G. 
Broil y, Wm. 
Bischop, Wm. 
Breton, Geo. 
Bathgate, Captain 

Burke, 

Burgess, W. 
Barbados — 2:j Copies. 
Berbice — 1 7 Copies. 



Blake, Thos.— 2 Copies. 

Croal, John 

Cauty, Geo.— 2 Copies. 

Conyers, Charles— 2 Copies. 

Chambers, Richard 

Chapman, Robert 

Christiani, E. L.— 2 Copies. 

Christie, Robert 

Crichton, Wm. 

Cumings, James 

Campbell, Capt. 21st Fusileers 

Creser, R. Paymaster 21st F. 

Cantzlaar, G.— 2 Copies. 

Chads, Captain 1st W. I. Reg, 

Cart, Mark L. 

Coxail, James 

Campbell, D. 

Crowther, 

Davison, James 
Day, B. S.— 2 Copies. 
Donvin, John 
Doyle, John 
Dancket, G. 
Dannett, James 
Dealy, Sandiforth 
Douglas, Thos. 
De Lacy, Wm. 
Day, John C. 
De Witt, C, B. 
Dunkin, H. 
Dey, Mrs. 

Duggiri, Thos. M. H. — 2 Copies 

Dolphin, David 

Donald, James 

Davis, M. A. 

Edkins, J. — 2 Copies. 

Edelmann, J. F. 

Easton, Win. 

Frankland, Thos. — 3 Copies. 
Forrester, Thos. — 2 Copies. 
Eraser, H. B.— 2 Copies. 
Fraser, Thos. 
Fyfe, A. G.— 2 Copies. 
Fox, Anthony 



126 



Ferguson, John 
Fitzgerald, L. 
Fraser, William 
Ferrier, Robert— 2 Copies. 
Firebrace, S. — 2 Copies. 
Ferguson, J. D. — 2 Copies. 
Forrester, G. M. 
Fowler, Thos. 
Fraser, John 
Fotheringham, F. 
Francken, H.— 2 Copies. 
Frost, John 
Forsyth, John 
Goodman, Lieut.-Colonel 
Gallaway, Andrew 
Gordon, S. VV. 

Gordon, Alex. Royal Engineers. 

Gordon, John 

Grant, C. 

Goodfellow, R. 

Garnett, A. 

Gill, George 

Grant, Peter — 2 Copies. 

Garrett, Henry 

Gallup, E. 

Gordon, John 

Grey, Hugh 

Groocock^ M. 

Graham, 

Gaspel, Thomas 

Gainsfbrt. A. G.— 2 Copies. 

Gordon, James 

Geddes, . 4 Copies. 

Godet, H. 

Goppy, . 2 Copies. 

Gahan, M,— 2 do. 
Harrower, A. F. — 2 Copies. 
Hadfield, Isaac 
Hainsworth, George 
Hyndman, R. A. 
Ham mill, Lieutenant 
Henery, E. J. 
Halson, A. 

Harvie, Robert— 2 Copies. 
Holmes, J. H. H. 
Hinds, George — 2 Copies. 
His Honor Charles Herbert, 

First Fiscal. 
Hemmerick, G. 
Hadfield, Joseph 



Horn, F. 

Hilhouse, W. — 2 Copies. 
Haley, J. D*— 2 do. 
Hall," John 
Haley, R. 
Hurst, William 
Harper, B. 
Henderson, W. 
Hoftstead, C. W. E. 
Hacket, James 
Hawkins, G. H, 
Haydon^ — 
Hutchinson, T. 
Helleman, R. F.— 2 Copies, 
Jeffery, William 
Jones, Owen 
Jackson, John 
Jackson, W. J. 
Johnson, William 
Jennings, J. P.—2 Copies, 
Johnson, Richard 
Jongs, John 
Iver, A. 

Jackson, James— 2 Copies, 

Irish, W. L. 

Jamaica — 28 Copies. 

Knight, R. B. 

Kingston, B.— 2 Copies, 

Knott, Charles 

Knight, J. J. 

King, Edward 

Kernan, Owen— 2 Copies. 

Kernan, W. 

Leahy, Lieut.-Colonel 21st Fu~ 

sileers— 2 Copies. 
Landry, S. D. 
Laing, James— 2 Copies. 
Lane, John — 2. do. 
Lathi op, J. P.— 2 do. 
Lyng, William 
Lanier man, J. H. 
Law, Walter — 2 Copies. 
Murray, Major-Generai 
Murray, John 

Muddtll, Capt. R. N,— 2 Copies 

Mitchell, George 

Matthews, John 

Mills, A.--2 Copies, 

Merry, James 

Martin, XX 



124* 



Moliere, J. J. L. 

Mackie, A. — 2 Copies. 

Morrison, D. 

Martinez, L. 

Morrison, John 

Madden, John 

Mess of the 21st Regiment 

Marshal, E. 

M rehouse, Mrs. 

Murray, . 2 Copies. 

M'Kay, Dr. David 
M'Cauehey, T.— 2 Copies. 
Mitchell, D. 
M'Farquher, John 
M In tyre, John 
M'Arthur, John 
M'Arthur, D. 
M Don aid. James 
M Turk, M.— 2 Copies. 
M'Donnell, Alexander 
S I Do well, John — 2 Copies. 
M'Keuzie, A. — 2 Copies. 
M'Monald, A. 
M'Allister, A. 
Milleman, G. 
McLean, J. Jr. 
Merteens, J. — 2 Copies. 
Marx, M. . 

IMorson, 

IvFLcan, S. 21st Fusileers. 

M'Pherson, John 

M'Rae, Alex.— 2 Copies. 

M'Gusty, J. M.— 2 Copies. 

Neil!, William 

Noble, John 

Nicholson, W. 

Nelson, Captain 

Otto, F. C-— 2 Copies. 

Omlkerk, E. J. 

Oakey, J. H. S. 

dbermuller, J. H. — 2 Copies. 

Planter, C. R. 

Pierce, W. E. 

Pinkerton, J. 

Phipps, R.— 2 Copies. 

Pearson, R. 

Pinnock, Thos. 

Pollard, II. C. 

Pollard, 2 Copies. 

Pollard, N. W. 



Peafc, J.— 2 Copies. 
Price, T. W. 
Pearson, John 
Reed, J. G. 
Reed, R. 

Robinson, C. Collector H. M. 

Customs — 2 Copies. 
Raddiff, J. 
Richardson, George 
Robertson, George 
Robertson, James 
Robinson, Charles — 2 Copies, 
Roberts, VVilliam 
Rogers, H.— 2 Copies. 
Roge. s, Thos. 
Reid, James 
Roberts, Robert 
Richardson, G. A.— 2 Copies. 
Ross, George 
Reid, William 
Richardson, Dr. 
Richardson, Thos. 
Ruvsenborg, D. M» 
Robb, A. 

Rosbiter, James— 2 Copies. 
Searle, G. C. 
Staple, P. 

Simpson, Alex.— 2 Copies. 
Smith, J. L. — 2 Copies. 
Smith, J. L. Jr. 
Steen, John 
Sweet nam, Wm. 
Shepherd, S. 
Stuart, James 
Spooner, J. M. 
Shepherd, Alex. 
Smith, J. P. 

Sutherland, A. — 2 Copies. 
Story, R. C. 
Seelig, J. D. G. 
Seward, H. O. 

Schirmeister, . 2 Copies. 

Spencer, C— 2 Copies. 
Spaman, J. P. 
Solomons, J. H. 
Sutcliffe, R. 

Stewart, . 3 Copies, 

Shanks, A. 
Stewart, \\\ B. 
Shanks, J. 



Scanlan, P. N.— 2 Copies, 

Smith, Andrew 

Tulioh, H. - 2 Copies; 

Towart, William 

Tapps, W G. 

Thompson, M. 

Thron. F. Copies. 

Thomson, C. 

Taylor, James 

T' inidad — 14 Copies. 

Urqiihart, William — 2 Copies, 

Varden, M H. 

Van Cooten, H. — 2 Copies. 

Van Waierschoudt, J. 

Van Waterschoudt, A; 

Van Baerle A. 

Van Cooten, N. 

Van Grovestins, C. A,— 2 Copies 

Van Berckle, F. P. 

Van Coo* en, L. — 3 Copies. 

Viret, M. -2 Copies. 

Voglesang, H. 

Wilday* Charles 



125 

Wad ley, John — 2 Copies. 

Williams, Heneage— 2 Copies* 

Wallace, Peter 

Wilson, R. 

Warren, B. S„ 

W 7 atr, P. F. 

Wi^ht, George 

Walbran, Peter 

Wilson, James 

Williamson, Coloriel 

Vviison, Joseph 

Wrighton, H. S. 

Watkinson, J. 

Walmsley, John 

Wright, Francis 

Wylie, Hugh- -2 Copies. 

Whitehead, -— 

W 7 achope, Mrs; 

W r atson, H. R. 

Whiteley, R. 

Watt, James 

W T aguer, W. 



PH?iisd at the Guiana Chronicle Office, Georgetown) Dcmerara. 



AD 1Q.9. 



ad 10. a 



I 



AD 10.9. 



